(616) 288-2554
820 84th St SW, Byron Center, MI 49315
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TMD Therapy
Home » TMD Therapy

We support healthy, beautiful smiles and relief from chronic migraines and other symptoms of TMJ problems.

If you want relief from migraines, persistent earaches, and neck, shoulder, and back pain, look no further than VanderLaan Family Dentistry in Byron Center, Michigan. While it may seem curious at first blush to turn to a dentist’s office for therapy to relieve pain that seemingly has nothing to do with the mouth, these complaints are common signs of TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder or dysfunction). 

About TMJDs

TMJ refers to a part of your anatomy, specifically, the temporomandibular joint or hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJD or TMD refers to the actual condition associated with these joints. In addition to the symptoms noted above, Dr. Matthew VanderLaan may suspect TMJD if he notices the following red flags for the condition during a routine evaluation:

  • Jaw stiffness or immobility 
  • Problems opening and closing the mouth easily and painlessly
  • A noisy jaw or popping and clicking sounds when moving the mouth 
  • Chronic bruxism or teeth-grinding 
  • Excessive wear and tear to dental work and natural teeth; for instance, chips and cracks
  • Imbalances with how the opposing teeth in the upper and lower jaws come together when you bite down

The nature and extent of symptoms varies from person to person. Without treatment, formerly minor annoyances can turn into debilitating problems. So, we encourage you to contact us if you suspect that TMJD is to blame for pain, damage to your teeth, and other issues. 

Multi-faceted treatment 

Just as there are many symptoms, there are also many potential sources of TMJDs. Really, any time the joints and their interrelated tissues and structures are stressed, you may be at risk of developing TMJ symptoms. Risk factors range from persistent chewing of gum to behaviors like bruxism and conditions like misaligned teeth and “bites.” Accurate diagnoses inform the development of a treatment plan or approach that eases your symptoms in the short term and resolves the underlying problem over a long time for real treatment. Depending on your needs, we may recommend simple lifestyle changes. Or, we can customize a specialized oral appliance. This appliance may relieve the pressure on your teeth and jaws from conditions like bruxism. If orthodontic problems are to blame, we may discuss discreet and comfortable treatment options such as clear aligner therapy.

VanderLaan Family Dentistry keeps your smile healthy and looking great and also supports the health of your whole self. Call (616) 288-2554 to schedule a consultation with Dr. VanderLaan at our office in Byron Center, MI, today.

Dr. Matthew VanderLaan

Dr. Matthew VanderLaan is a highly skilled dentist with over 15 years of experience dedicated to personalized, patient-centered care. An alumnus of East Kentwood High School and the University of Michigan, he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Having spent three years as a public health dentist, he established VanderLaan Family Dentistry in 2012. 

Dr. VanderLaan has pursued advanced training at the Pankey Institute, Kois Center, Dawson Academy, American Academy of Facial Esthetics, The Schuster Center, and is a Fellow of Implant Pathways. He is also trained in TMJ and pain management. As a member of the American and Michigan Dental Associations and West Michigan District Dental Society, he is committed to excellence and trustworthiness in dentistry.

Within his family practice, Dr. VanderLaan has been a civilian provider for disabled veterans of the United States Armed Forces.  Since 2014, He has partnered with the local VA and has had the pleasure of caring for individuals who have sacrificed their personal well-being for our Nation’s safety.  He considers it one of his greatest honors of being a dentist.

Outside of his dental practice, Dr. VanderLaan is an avid family man.  He enjoys his time with his wife of 17 years, Dana, as well as his four children (Brooke, 16, Jenna 15, AJ 11, and Nora 11).  As a family they enjoy the kid’s sports, music, involvement in their Church and Christian Faith community, and Michigan Football.  They also enjoy traveling and exploring the world together.  

Dana VanderLaan

Dana VanderLaan founded VanderLaan Family Dentistry with her husband, Dr. VanderLaan, in April of 2012.  She is versed in all administrative tasks and acts as the office manager.  Before her over 12 years of experience in the dental field, Dana graduated with a BSW from Saginaw Valley State University and an MSW from the University of Michigan, School of Social Work. Dana is a self starter, and was trained in dentistry completely on the job, and continues to learn new things about running an efficient, patient-centered dental office.

Along with her work at VFD, she is mom to her children (Brooke 16, Jenna 15, AJ 11 and Nora 11), and works tirelessly to make sure all of their needs are met, and devotes her time to being their #1 supporter.  She enjoys her family time, rooting on her kid’s at their various athletic events, school and church activities, traveling, walking and working out, gardening, and spending time at home.