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Posts for tag: Bonding
Some dental procedures are only meant for teenagers and adults, but there are many that can be used for children, as well. Bonding is one of them. Drs. Natalie Corley and Chad Corley are trained in pediatric dentistry and can give expert care in bonding for Decatur children. 
Dental bonding can be an option for a child if:
- A decayed tooth needs repaired
- A chipped or cracked tooth needs repaired
- The appearance of the tooth needs improved
- The shape of the tooth needs changed
- The tooth root has been exposed when gums recede
Tooth bonding can also be used for tooth fillings instead of amalgam fillings. Bonding fillings can be used on front and back teeth, depending on the location and extent of tooth decay.
What to Expect with Dental Bonding
In order to know what to expect for your child’s dental bonding appointment, we have listed the procedure for you here:
- Preparation: Little preparation is needed for dental bonding. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless it is being used to fill in a decayed tooth. A shade guide will be used to select a composite resin color, which will closely match the color of your child’s tooth.
- The bonding process: The surface of the tooth will be roughened and a conditioning liquid is applied. These procedures help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored, putty-like resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. An ultraviolet light or laser is then used to harden the material. After the material is hardened, Dr. Corley will further trim and shape it and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.
- Time frame: Dental bonding typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.
The resin from the tooth bonding may need to be replaced with more permanent restorations after your child is fully grown because the bonded resin may wear over time. It may also stain and dull with age. As your child has completed growth, a more permanent restoration such as porcelain veneers or a crown may be necessary.
We also recommend that a custom fitted mouthguard be used during your child’s physical activities to prevent other teeth from getting damaged. If your child has a chipped or damaged tooth, contact our Decatur pediatric and family dental office today at (217) 330-6217 to schedule an appointment, or to discuss questions about bonding for your child.
