Dental Bonding in Caledonia

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic treatment that can improve the appearance of your teeth and overall smile. Composite resin is bonded to the teeth to cover up dental imperfections such as discoloration, chips, cracks, gaps, crooked teeth, or to alter the shape and size of teeth. 

It is often combined with shaping & contouring (enameloplasty) which involves removing a small amount of enamel to alter the appearance of the teeth. By shaving down sharp or pointy teeth and smoothing out rough edges, you can achieve the perfect aesthetic for your teeth.

Did you know…

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Dental bonding is a cheaper alternative to veneers and dental crowns.

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How it works: The denal bonding process

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Consultation

Dr. Shaun Williams will perform an oral exam & take x-rays to ensure you have no oral health problems that need to be treated and determine if you’re a good candidate for dental bonding.

etching

We’ll first clean your teeth and match the shade using a shade guide with the composite resin. An acidic etching gel will be applied to your teeth to roughen the surface and encourage adhesion.

bonding

Composite resin is applied and molded to the tooth to achieve the desired shape and size.

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UV light

The resin is cured with UV light to instantly harden.

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additional shaping

After the bonding has cured, some additional contouring can be performed to alter the shape or length of the teeth.

Did you know…

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Bonded teeth can chip so you should avoid teeth grinding and using your teeth as tools.

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Have questions about dental bonding? Find answers here.

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what do I do if I chip or crack a tooth?

We can repair minor chips and cracks with dental bonding but more severe damage may require dental crowns or extraction. To relieve the pain, you can take anti-inflammatory pain medication and apply a cold compress to the area for about 20 minutes at a time. 

Rinse your mouth out with warm water and check that you don't have any sharp edges that could cut the inside of your mouth. If you do, you should get to the dentist right away or purchase a temporary dental filling to protect your soft tissue until you can get to the dentist. Stick to soft foods and try not to use the chipped tooth to chew.

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what if my tooth is too badly damaged for bonding?

If the damage is too severe to be repaired with dental bonding, there are many other restorative options available, such as dental crowns, root canals, or extraction and replacement. If the dental pulp inside of your tooth has become inflamed or infected, you will need to have a root canal or extraction. 

However, if you have just damaged the outside structure of the tooth, then a dental crown would be the most protective and durable option to restore the function and appearance of the tooth. If damage is extensive, you may need to have the tooth extracted in which case you can replace the tooth with a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implant.

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What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can enhance the appearance of your smile. It involves the application of a tooth-colored composite resin to repair a decayed, chipped, fractured, or discolored tooth. Unlike veneers, which require laboratory work, bonding can be done in a single visit to Dr. Shaun Williams at Glen Valley Dentistry. The procedure is called bonding because the material bonds to the tooth for a long-lasting, natural-looking result.

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Why should I consider dental bonding in Caledonia, MI?

Dental bonding is a cost-effective and minimally invasive procedure that can drastically improve your smile. If you have a tooth that's chipped, discolored, or slightly misaligned, bonding can help you achieve a more uniform and attractive smile. It's also a great solution if you have a gap between your teeth that you'd like to close. Dr. Shaun Williams has extensive experience in dental bonding and can help you decide if this treatment is the right choice for you.

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What can I expect during the dental bonding procedure at Glen Valley Dentistry?

The dental bonding procedure is simple and typically requires just one visit to our Caledonia, MI office. First, Dr. Williams will choose a composite resin color that closely matches your natural tooth color. Then, he will roughen the surface of the tooth and apply a conditioning liquid, which helps the bonding material adhere. The tooth-colored resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. An ultraviolet light or laser is used to harden the material, after which Dr. Williams will trim, shape, and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of your tooth surface. The entire process takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth to complete.

Please note that while dental bonding is a durable solution, it's not as strong as your natural teeth, so it's important to avoid habits such as biting your nails or chewing on pens. Regular check-ups with Dr. Williams will ensure that your bonded teeth stay in excellent condition.

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Is dental bonding a painful procedure?

No, dental bonding is a minimally invasive and virtually painless procedure. In most cases, there is no need for numbing unless the bonding is being used to fill a cavity. The process typically involves roughening the tooth surface, applying the bonding material, shaping it, and then curing it with a special light.

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How long does dental bonding last?

The longevity of dental bonding can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and the location of the bonding. On average, dental bonding can last between 5 to 10 years. Be sure to take good care of your teeth as regular dental check-ups and good oral care can help extend its lifespan.

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Is dental bonding right for me, and are there any alternatives?

Dental bonding is an excellent option for many individuals seeking cosmetic improvements. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. During a consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss alternatives such as veneers or crowns. Together, you can determine the best solution to achieve your desired smile.

Did you know…

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Bonding is completely painless and does not require any local anesthesia.

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