Gold has been used in dentistry for centuries, and one of its most prominent applications is in dental crowns. Dental crowns, also known as caps, are tooth-shaped covers that are placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. While there are several materials available for dental crowns, gold remains a popular choice among dentists and patients for various reasons.
1. Durability
Gold is known for its exceptional durability, making it an excellent material for dental crowns. Unlike other materials, such as porcelain or ceramic, gold crowns are less likely to chip or fracture. This means that gold crowns can last for a very long time with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care.
Gold crowns are also less prone to wear and tear compared to natural teeth, making them a reliable option for individuals who have a habit of grinding or clenching their teeth. The durability of gold crowns ensures that patients can enjoy a restored tooth structure without worrying about frequent replacements or repairs.
Furthermore, gold crowns are resistant to corrosion and tarnish, maintaining their appearance and functionality over time. Even with regular exposure to saliva and various foods and drinks, gold crowns retain their lustrous appearance, providing patients with a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
2. Biocompatibility
Another key advantage of using gold in dental crowns is its biocompatibility. Gold is a biologically inert material, meaning it does not react with bodily tissues or fluids. This makes gold crowns highly compatible with the human body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or other adverse responses.
Some individuals may experience allergies or sensitivities to certain dental materials, such as nickel or other metal alloys. Gold crowns eliminate this concern and offer a safe and reliable option for individuals with sensitivities or allergies.
Furthermore, the biocompatibility of gold crowns extends to the surrounding gums and tissues. The smooth surface of a gold crown minimizes irritation or inflammation, promoting healthier gum tissues and reducing the risk of gum disease.
3. Excellent Fit
Gold has unique properties that make it an ideal material for creating dental crowns with an exceptional fit. The malleability of gold allows dentists to achieve precise and accurate crown fittings, ensuring a comfortable and secure placement over the tooth.
During the crown fabrication process, gold is easily shaped and adjusted to match the specific contours of the patient's tooth. This customization guarantees a snug fit that minimizes the risk of bacterial growth or decay underneath the crown.
Moreover, the excellent fit of gold crowns contributes to their longevity. A well-fitted gold crown can effectively seal the damaged tooth, providing optimal protection against further deterioration or infection.
4. Minimal Tooth Removal
In order to accommodate a dental crown, a certain amount of tooth structure must be removed. Gold crowns require less tooth reduction compared to other materials, such as porcelain crowns.
The minimal tooth removal associated with gold crowns helps preserve the natural tooth structure, making them a conservative option for patients. By minimizing the amount of healthy tooth structure removed, gold crowns promote better oral health in the long run.
Additionally, less tooth reduction during the preparation for a gold crown allows for a quicker and more comfortable dental procedure, reducing the overall treatment time and potential discomfort for the patient.
5. Compatibility with Natural Teeth
Gold has a similar hardness to natural tooth structure, making it compatible with opposing teeth during biting and chewing. This ensures that the patient's bite remains natural and balanced after the placement of a gold crown.
In contrast, some other dental crown materials may cause excessive wear on the opposing teeth or create an unnatural bite, resulting in discomfort or additional dental problems. Gold crowns provide a harmonious relationship with the natural dentition, enhancing overall oral function.
Did you know? The cost of gold dental crowns can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the crown, the complexity of the case, and the location of the dental practice. On average, the cost of a gold crown can range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth.
6. High Precision
The casting process used to create gold crowns allows for high precision and accuracy in replicating the shape and size of the tooth. This ensures a seamless integration with the patient's natural dentition.
Gold crowns can be meticulously crafted to resemble the adjacent teeth, resulting in a natural-looking smile. Their ability to mimic the color and translucency of natural teeth makes gold crowns an excellent choice, especially for visible teeth in the smile zone.
The high precision of gold crowns also facilitates proper occlusion (bite alignment), reducing the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and promoting overall oral health.
7. Long-Term Cost Efficiency
While the initial cost of a gold crown may be higher compared to other materials, its long-term cost efficiency can outweigh the upfront expense.
Gold crowns have a proven track record of durability, meaning they require fewer replacements or repairs over time. This can result in long-term savings for patients, as they avoid the need for frequent crown replacements.
Furthermore, gold crowns have a lower risk of complications or failure compared to other types of dental crowns. Their longevity and reliability can minimize future dental expenses, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
8. Comfort and Sensitivity
Gold is a good conductor of heat and cold, making gold crowns more comfortable for individuals with sensitivity to temperature changes.
Unlike materials such as porcelain, which can amplify temperature sensations, gold crowns provide a better insulating effect. This results in reduced sensitivity and enhanced comfort, especially when consuming hot or cold food and beverages.
9. Ease of Adjustments
In some cases, adjustments may be necessary after the placement of a dental crown. Gold crowns offer the advantage of easy adjustability, allowing dentists to make refinements if needed.
The malleability of gold simplifies the adjustment process, as the crown can be gently reshaped without compromising its structural integrity. This makes gold crowns a convenient option for patients who may require minor modifications or refinements in the future.
10. Long History of Success
The use of gold in dentistry dates back centuries, and its long history of success speaks to its reliability and effectiveness as a dental crown material.
Gold crowns have proven their longevity and durability, with many gold crowns lasting upwards of 20-30 years or more. This track record of success has instilled confidence in both dentists and patients, contributing to the continuous use of gold in modern dentistry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are gold crowns more expensive than other types of crowns?
A: Yes, gold crowns tend to be more expensive than other types of dental crowns. The cost can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the crown, the complexity of the case, and the location of the dental practice. On average, the cost of a gold crown can range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth.
Q: How long do gold crowns last?
A: Gold crowns have shown exceptional longevity, with many lasting 20-30 years or more with proper care. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help extend the lifespan of a gold crown.
Q: Are gold crowns noticeable when smiling?
A: Gold crowns can be visible when smiling, especially if they are placed on the front or visible teeth. However, their appearance is often considered aesthetically pleasing due to the natural color and luster of gold.
References:
- Kamath SU, Kamath V, Ariga P, Hegde C. Gold as a restorative material in dentistry - revisited. J Int Oral Health. 2014;6(3):110-113.
- Hepburn HR. Use of gold in dentistry: past, present, and future. Dent Clin North Am. 2005;49(1):pp. 177-197, vi. doi:10.1016/j.cden.2004.08.004
- Wilson TG, Jr, Magal Medina YE, Mayer M, Schoolfield JD, Cochran DL, Fiorellini JP. Mechanical, chemical, and biologic properties of gold and palladium-copper alloys for fixed prosthodontics. Int J Dent. 2017;2017:5478491. doi:10.1155/2017/5478491
