What are the opening hours?

Monday 7am - 12pm Tuesday 7am - 5:30pm Wednesday 7am - 1pm Thursday 7am - 5pm

Steven Z. Hechtman, DDS, 55 N Pond Drive, Suite 3, Walled Lake, MI (2026)

Why Choose Our Dental Practice In
Walled Lake, Michigan? We are grateful for every person we have the privilege of meeting and helping to improve their smile. When you visit our Lakes Area Office, you will meet a group of hygienists and professionals who are committed to your smile. We offer the latest technology in modern dentistry, including a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosme

tic dental care services to meet the needs of your entire family. We pride ourselves in offering a personalized experience which includes a full range of dental services. Only the most current and advanced dental technology and techniques are used in our practice. Our goal is to work with our patients in achieving and maintaining long term dental health and a beautiful smile. We accommodate each individual’s special needs and budget. We have a long history of helping individuals who are highly anxious about receiving dental care, or those who suffer from Dental fear and anxiety.

06/05/2026

How 3D Printing Is Changing Modern Dentistry
The buzz today is all about artificial intelligence (AI) and how it will revolutionize every aspect of our lives. Technology is always advancing in the workplace, schools, medicine and other areas and technology advances in the dental field are no exception.

From the use of AI to diagnose dental issues to 3D printing technology, dentistry is evolving.

These innovations are making diagnoses and treatments easier, and in some cases, more economical for patients.

The vast majority of dental practices with five or more employees currently use 3D printing technology and even if they don’t have 3D printing in-house they probably contract with a 3D printing provider.1 3D printing technology was first used in manufacturing to make plastic prototypes using a digital design file to build a physical object layer by layer.

Today, 3D printing is used in almost every major industry including aerospace manufacturing, medicine, automotive repair, food production, education and dentistry. Currently a $23.41 billion market, global 3D printing is expected to reach $136.76 billion by 2034.2

How it Works in a Dental Office

In dentistry, resin, ceramics or metals are used in 3D printers to fabricate dentures, clear teeth aligners, dental crown substructures, dental models and surgical guides.3 The process begins by scanning the patient’s mouth using an intraoral scanner. This device creates precise images of a patient’s tooth and/or mouth anatomy.

The intraoral scanner may be used in place of traditional polyvinyl siloxane impression material or it may be used in combination with the impression material. The images created by the intraoral scanner are recorded in a computer-aided design or CAD file. That file is used to create a highly accurate implant or dental mold through 3D printing.

The materials used to create dentures, dental crown structures, aligners and other dental models are chosen for biocompatibility, aesthetics and safety.4 Different resins are used for different dental applications. A tooth aligner or mouth guard would generally be made with a resin that is clear, while resin resembling gingiva would be used for a dental implant.5

Benefits for the Patient as well as the Dentist

3D printing offers many benefits to patients and dentists alike. A dental crown can be created and placed in a single visit, reducing the need for a temporary crown and several weeks production time. Crowns, bridges, veneers and other 3D printed items developed using an intraoral scanner are done with precision, achieving a micron-level fit and minimizing post-placement adjustments.6

Surgical guides help position implants correctly and guides that are done with 3-D printing technology allow for precise positioning of implants as well as minimal tissue disruption which speeds healing and success of the implant. Dentures and partials made with 3D printing can often be accurately fabricated in a single visit, making the process faster, more comfortable, more affordable and more accurate. Clear aligners printed in 3D are an exact fit.

In Sum

Overall, 3D printing contributes to patient comfort, increases accuracy, reduces wait time to hours or days rather than weeks, and reduces cost associated with third-party labs. While there is always skepticism with technological advances, the use of 3D printing in dentistry has already proved to be a beneficial advancement. # # # #

Helping Walled Lake Patients Smile with Confidence

For the latest in dental technology, treatments, and cosmetic dental procedures, Dr. Hechtman and his team are a trusted choice in Walled Lake. With more than 40 years of experience, our dental office provides knowledgeable, compassionate care for patients of all ages.

Visit our Walled Lake dental office for expert dental care focused on helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile while supporting your overall oral health.

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1 Top 9 Dental Industry Trends (2025 – 2027) by Josh Howarth, 11/22/2024

Link: https://explodingtopics.com/blog/dental-industry-trends

2 What is a 3D Printer Used For? Top Real-World Uses, 3/24/2026

Link: https://scienceinsights.org/what-is-a-3d-printer-used-for-top-real-world-uses/

3, 6 3D Printing in Dentistry: From Concept to Clinical Application by Dr. Baldessari, 6/10/2025

Link: https://americandentalinstitute.com/3d-printing-in-dentistry-from-concept-to-clinical-application/

4, 5 3D Printing in Dentistry: Applications and Materials by Dean McClements, 8/8/2022

Link: https://www.xometry.com/resources/3d-printing/3d-printing-in-dentistry/

The post How 3D Printing Is Changing Modern Dentistry appeared first on Dentist in Walled Lake | Walled Lake Dentist Family and Cosmetic Dentist.

The buzz today is all about artificial intelligence (AI) and how it will revolutionize every aspect of our lives. Technology is always advancing in the workplace, schools, medicine and other areas and technology advances in the dental field are no exception. From the use of AI to diagnose dental iss...

05/08/2026

Teeth Whitening: What Patients Should Know
The desire for bright white teeth can be traced back in history to a time when having white teeth was associated with wealth, as poor citizens couldn’t afford dental care and were more likely to consume sugary foods which erode tooth enamel.

Movie stars and other celebrities sport white teeth so there is a perception that white teeth symbolize beauty, success and confidence. White teeth are synonymous with attractiveness, affluence, youth and good health.

If a person has missing or discolored teeth they are often perceived as being less affluent and neglectful of their health with biases causing many to equate white teeth with clean living.1 The demand for teeth whitening continues to expand each year, jumping from $7.72 billion in 2025 to a projected $8.01 in 2026.2

White teeth can be achieved either by using over-the-counter products or through professional dental treatments.

This means in-office treatments or take-home kits. At-home, do-it-yourself teeth whitening is the most popular option, with 90 percent of individuals choosing this method and only 10 percent seeking whitening procedures from a dentist.3

While DIY teeth whitening may be popular research reveals, however, that “more than 90 percent of patients who receive professional in-office whitening report being pleased with their results.”4

Do-it-yourself teeth whitening is by far the most popular way individuals choose in hopes of achieving whiter teeth. This includes the use of strips, gels, or whitening toothpaste with 37 million Americans reported using some form of tooth-whitening product annually.

The results from these over-the-counter products aren’t always what users are seeking. Whitening toothpaste generally only lightens by one to two shades with consistent use; whitening strips also lighten teeth a few shades when used once or twice daily; and whitening mouthwashes used daily only produce subtle improvements.5

Risks with At-Home Teeth Whitening

There are several significant concerns with DIY teeth whitening. The abrasive or acidic ingredients, such as baking soda, lemon juice or activated charcoal, can cause damage to tooth enamel which does not regenerate.

Loss of tooth enamel can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities.6 Another concern is gum irritation, especially with products that use hydrogen peroxide. Crest 3D Whitening Strips is the only tooth bleaching product to receive the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance for safety and efficacy, however the product does use hydrogen peroxide and like many teeth whitening strips the product can miss gaps between teeth, causing uneven whitening. It is best to check with your dentist before using any DIY over-the-counter tooth whitener and to always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.

Consider an In-Office Teeth Whitening Treatment

Professional whitening treatments offered by dentists can lighten teeth by several shades in just one appointment which can be beneficial for those needing quick results prior to weddings, reunions, public appearances, etc.

While in-office whitening is the most expensive way to go having your dentist supervise your treatment can prevent any long-term oral health effects of other whitening options. Your dentist can also prescribe a take-home kit, which is less expensive than in-office treatment.

While the whitening results of take-home kits are slower to emerge, the results are comparable to in-office treatments.

If you desire whiter teeth talk with your dentist about the available options. Even if you use a do-it-yourself product your dentist may be very helpful in recommending products that are not only safe, but also effective. Your dentist can also monitor you for any adverse effects.

Brighten Your Smile with Teeth Whitening in Walled Lake

Dr. Steven Z. Hechtman DDS has nearly five decades of experience helping patients achieve bright, healthy smiles. Our Walled Lake dental office offers safe teeth whitening treatments using the latest whitening technology, with both at-home and in-office options for convenient, long-lasting results.

Explore your dental health options at our Walled Lake dental clinic, including cosmetic dentistry, dental treatments, annual check-ups, teeth cleanings, and more. Call today for a free dental consultation.

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1 Why Do Americans Want White Teeth? (Intertwining Factors)

Link: https://www.cdhp.org/why-do-americans-want-white-teeth/

2 Global Teeth Whitening Market

Link: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/teeth-whitening-market

3, 4, 5 Teeth Whitening Statistics 2026 by Mara Sugue, 3/25/2026

Link: https://www.newmouth.com/oral-health/teeth-whitening-statistics/

6 The Hidden Dangers of DIY Dental Care Teeth Whitening Products, 5/8/2025

Link: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/teeth-whitening-market

The post Teeth Whitening: What Patients Should Know appeared first on Dentist in Walled Lake | Walled Lake Dentist Family and Cosmetic Dentist.

The desire for bright white teeth can be traced back in history to a time when having white teeth was associated with wealth, as poor citizens couldn’t afford dental care and were more likely to consume sugary foods which erode tooth enamel. Movie stars and other celebrities sport white teeth so t...

04/03/2026

Top Dental Care Trends this Spring
The winter frost has melted away, and the threat of tooth problems associated with cold weather has all but disappeared. As spring comes in, a few innovations in dental care will be popping up in a dental facility near you.

This season brings more than a beautiful smile, it brings technology that makes oral health easier to access.

Check out these latest trends that will be redefining dentistry in 2026.

Point-of-Care Saliva Testing

Have you ever wondered whether you are prone to gum disease or oral cancer due to your family background of such oral problems? You won’t have to wonder anymore. A hot topic in 2026 will be point-of-care saliva testing, a form of dental testing.

This test involves a dentist testing your saliva for specific bacteria or genetic markers that increase your risk for dental issues, such as periodontal disease. Within minutes, a dentist can detect hidden inflammation before it manifests as pain in your mouth or as dangerous infections in your bloodstream.

Digital Smile Design

You may have seen or even taken countless photos that don’t show your teeth. It’s not that most people aren’t happy; they just aren’t happy with their smile. If you are someone who isn’t happy with your smile, you can now have a chance to “try before you buy” using the latest digital smile design technology.

This “preview” tool allows you to see what a new smile will look like on you. Using 3D intraoral scans and AI-driven facial analysis, you can see how various tooth shapes will affect your facial proportions, long before the dental procedure begins.

AI-Assisted Diagnostics

Just about every industry is getting a dose of artificial intelligence, and so is dentistry. AI is moving from the computer screen to the diagnostic chair. In dentistry, AI serves as a second set of eyes for dental professionals.

Using superhuman precision, AI can spot cavities and early bone loss much more effectively than any current technology. Using AI is moving dentistry from detection to prediction of cavities and bone loss, months before they may cause pain.

Tooth-Friendly Spring Diets

If you are into your “New Year, New Me” routine, don’t forget to incorporate foods that support your dental hygiene. Supporting a tooth-friendly diet is more than just avoiding sugary snacks. It’s also about eating healthy foods that can help with oral care, just as much as brushing, such as radishes and carrots.

These types of fiber-rich vegetables serve a dual purpose: one, scrubbing away plaque and debris as you chew, and two, increasing saliva production to protect against acid and decay. Implementing these few changes to your diet will work wonders on your teeth between cleanings and treatments.

Tele-dentistry Consultations

The pandemic officially ushered in the digital age of tele-dentistry. From the convenience of your home, you can now get expert opinions on a variety of topics, including smile makeovers, orthodontic check-ins, and emergency triage. You don’t have to rely exclusively on setting an in-house dental appointment. Instead, while in the comfort of your home or car, you can receive a preliminary assessment or treatment plan via secure video links or AI-powered apps.

With this style of dentistry consultation, you can have less dental anxiety and rest assured that professional help is only one click away.

In Sum

As 2026 unfolds, dental care is becoming less reactive and more proactive. AI will get to the heart of problems in minutes, while saliva testing will help predict what’s to come in your future based on your family’s past. This season, expect many dentists to incorporate these non-invasive practices into their treatment plans.

Comprehensive Family Dental Care in Walled Lake

Ready to schedule your next dental appointment? Contact Walled Lake Dentistry today to learn more about our modern dental services for patients of all ages. With more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Hechtman provides comprehensive dental care, including cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, children’s dentistry, and more.

The post Top Dental Care Trends this Spring appeared first on Dentist in Walled Lake | Walled Lake Dentist Family and Cosmetic Dentist.

The winter frost has melted away, and the threat of tooth problems associated with cold weather has all but disappeared. As spring comes in, a few innovations in dental care will be popping up in a dental facility near you. This season brings more than a beautiful smile, it brings technology that ma...

Address

55 N Pond Drive, Suite 3
Walled Lake, MI
48390

Opening Hours

Monday	7am - 12pm
Tuesday	7am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	7am - 1pm
Thursday	7am - 5pm

Telephone

(248) 669-5220

Website

http://walledlakedentist.com/

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