Gold Fillings

What Are Gold Fillings?

Gold fillings, also known as gold inlays or onlays, are a type of dental restoration used to repair and restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. They’re made from a mixture of gold and other metals, such as silver, copper, and platinum, to create a durable and long-lasting dental filling material. Gold fillings are known for their unique properties and have been used in dentistry for many years.

To learn more about the types of dental fillings offered at Northwind Dental, contact our Wasilla dentist today by calling (907) 373-2440.

Benefits of Gold Fillings

Several benefits can be enjoyed due to gold fillings, including:

• Durability: Gold is an extremely durable and long-lasting material. Gold fillings can withstand chewing and biting for many years, often outlasting other types of dental fillings.
• Biocompatibility: Gold is biocompatible, meaning it’s well-tolerated by the human body. It’s less likely to cause allergic reactions or sensitivities compared to some other filling materials, such as amalgam.
• Longevity: Gold fillings have a proven track record of lasting for decades. With proper care and maintenance, they can remain functional for 15 to 30 years or even longer. This longevity can result in cost savings over time as there are fewer replacements needed.
• Less Tooth Sensitivity: Gold fillings are less likely to cause tooth sensitivity than materials like silver amalgam. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who have sensitive teeth or are concerned about post-treatment discomfort.
• Precision Fit: Gold fillings are custom-made to fit the specific contours of the prepared tooth. This custom fabrication ensures a tight seal that minimizes the risk of further decay or damage to the tooth.
• Minimal Shrinkage: Gold fillings have minimal shrinkage, unlike other filling materials that may contract or shrink slightly after placement. This helps maintain the integrity of the restoration and reduces the risk of gaps or microleakage around the filling.
• Strength: Gold is a strong and resilient material, making it an excellent choice for restorations in posterior teeth (molars and premolars) that endure significant biting forces.
• Resistance to Corrosion: Gold doesn’t corrode or tarnish, ensuring that the filling maintains its integrity and won’t deteriorate over time.

Disadvantages of Gold Fillings

Just like other treatments, gold fillings have some disadvantages as well, including:

• Aesthetic Concerns: Gold fillings have a distinctive gold color, which can be highly visible in the mouth. This aesthetic factor makes them less suitable for front teeth or individuals who prioritize the natural appearance of their smile.
• Cost: Gold fillings are typically more expensive than other filling materials. The cost of gold, as a precious metal, contributes to the overall expense.
• Multiple Appointments: Getting a gold filling may require multiple dental visits. The process involves tooth preparation, impression taking, fabrication of the custom filling, fitting, cementing, and final adjustments.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to gold or the metals used in gold alloys. Allergic reactions can lead to discomfort, inflammation, or other adverse effects.
• Tooth Removal: Gold fillings may require more tooth removal compared to some other filling materials. This can weaken the tooth structure, potentially leading to the need for more extensive dental work in the future.
• Aesthetic Mismatch: If a patient has existing gold fillings and requires additional dental work, it may be challenging to match the color and appearance of the new fillings to the existing ones, resulting in a visually inconsistent smile.
• Visible Margins: In some cases, the margin of a gold filling may become visible over time as the gumline recedes or the filling wears down. This can affect the appearance of the restoration.

Gold Fillings Process

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Your dentist will assess the extent of tooth damage and determine if a gold filling is the best option. If so, your custom treatment plan will be created.

Tooth Preparation

The dentist will numb the area around the tooth using a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed using dental instruments, leaving behind a clean and prepared cavity. They’ll shape the cavity to allow for the proper placement of the gold filling.

Impression Taking

An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom-fitted gold filling.

Filling Fabrication

The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians will create the gold filling. The filling is fabricated to match the specific contours and dimensions of the prepared tooth.

Fitting and Cementing

Once the gold filling is ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office for placement. The dentist will ensure that the gold filling fits perfectly into the prepared cavity. They’ll apply dental cement to the interior of the cavity and the filling. Then, the filling is carefully placed into the cavity and cemented securely in place.

Polishing and Final Adjustments

After the gold filling is cemented, any excess cement is removed. Your dentist will check your bite to ensure that it feels natural and comfortable. The filling is polished to ensure a smooth surface and a comfortable bite. Then, any final adjustments are made as needed to ensure proper alignment and function.

Gold Filling Costs

The price of gold fillings will fluctuate depending on the market value of gold. Other factors, including the size of the filling and the location of the damaged tooth, will also influence the total cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Restore Your Oral Health at Northwind Dental

Do you need a cavity filled? Contact Northwind Dental today to schedule your appointment! Dr. Dawson and our Wasilla dental team will evaluate your oral health and recommend the best treatment for you. Call us today at (907) 373-2440.