When it comes to dental fillings, patients today have a variety of options to choose from, including silver amalgam, composite, and porcelain fillings. One option that might not be as commonly discussed but holds a significant place in dental history is gold. Used in dentistry for over 4,000 years, gold fillings are known for their exceptional durability and longevity. In this blog post, we’ll explore the unique features of gold fillings, weigh their benefits and drawbacks, and compare them with other filling materials to help you make an informed decision about your dental health.
History of Gold Fillings
Gold has a long history in dentistry, dating back to ancient times. The earliest evidence of gold fillings can be traced to Egypt around 700 BC. This precious metal was also used by the Etruscans, an ancient Italian civilization, and by the Romans. In the 1800s, dentists began using pure gold to fill cavities, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that a more refined method for crafting gold dental fillings was developed. This development was a big step in dental care, showing how valuable gold has been for keeping teeth healthy over the years.
What are Gold Fillings?
Gold fillings, also known as gold inlays, are made from an alloy of gold mixed with other metals, such as silver, copper, and palladium. This mixture creates a strong dental filling material resistant to wear and tear. The gold filling is custom-made to fit the shape and size of your tooth and is then cemented into place. Gold inlays are used for large cavities in the back teeth (molars and premolars) because they are durable and can withstand chewing forces.
Benefits of Gold Fillings
Gold fillings offer numerous benefits compared to other types of fillings. Here are some advantages of gold fillings:
- Durability: One of the biggest advantages of gold dental fillings is their longevity. While other types may last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, gold fillings can last up to 30 years with proper care.
- Strength: Gold is a highly durable material, making it an excellent choice for fillings. It can withstand chewing forces and grinding without breaking or cracking.
- Biocompatibility: Gold is a biocompatible material, meaning it is unlikely to cause any allergic reactions or adverse effects in the oral tissues or body.
- Perfect Fit: Gold inlays are custom-made to fit the cavity perfectly, preventing bacteria from entering and causing recurrent decay.
- Expands and contracts with the tooth: Gold has a similar coefficient of thermal expansion as natural tooth structure, meaning they expand and contract at the same rate. This makes them less likely to cause cracks or fractures in the tooth.
The Aesthetic Concerns
While gold fillings offer several benefits, they do come with certain drawbacks. One major concern is their poor aesthetics. Gold inlays are highly noticeable, making them less desirable for individuals seeking a natural-looking smile. In contrast, composite fillings and porcelain fillings, often referred to as white fillings, blend seamlessly with the natural tooth structure.
Despite this, gold fillings can still be an excellent option for back molars, where aesthetics are less of a concern and durability is a priority. For those prioritizing appearance, composite materials offer a more visually appealing alternative without sacrificing functionality.
How is the Dental Filling Procedure Performed?
The procedure for placing gold fillings, classified as indirect restorations, is similar to other types of fillings and typically involves two visits to the dentist. The cavity-filling procedure doesn’t hurt because it is performed under local anesthesia. During the first dental office visit, the dentist will remove the tooth decay and take dental impressions to create a custom filling. A temporary restoration may be placed to protect the tooth while the gold inlay is being fabricated in a dental laboratory.
On your second dental office visit, the dentist will clean and prepare the dental cavity before placing the gold inlay. They will ensure it fits perfectly and then cement it in place using a special adhesive. The filling is then shaped and polished for a smooth chewing surface, effectively sealing the cavity and preventing future decay.
Gold Foil Fillings
Gold foil fillings are another option, primarily used for smaller cavities or precise restorations. Unlike gold inlays, which are fabricated in a dental laboratory, gold foil fillings are placed directly into the cavity in thin layers. This method allows for a high degree of accuracy and is particularly effective for smaller repairs. However, for larger cavities, gold inlays or onlays are typically preferred due to their enhanced strength and durability.
What are The Drawbacks of Gold Fillings?
While gold restorations offer several benefits, they also have some drawbacks to consider. The most significant disadvantage is the high cost of gold fillings compared to other types of fillings.
Additionally, the procedure for placing gold inlays is more complex and time-consuming, requiring two separate visits to the dentist.
Furthermore, gold inlays are highly noticeable and may not be suitable for those seeking a more natural-looking smile. Porcelain fillings or composite fillings may be a better option where aesthetics are a concern.
What are the Alternatives?
While gold fillings have been used for many years, advancements in dental technology have introduced several alternatives. Alternative dental treatment for a decayed tooth include:
- Amalgam fillings: Made from a mixture of metals, silver amalgam fillings are a durable and cost-effective option. However, they are silver in color and can also contain amounts of mercury, which has raised health concerns in recent years.
- Composite resin fillings: These tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and glass materials. Composite fillings blend in with the natural tooth color but may not be as long-lasting as gold inlays. Discuss the pros and cons of amalgam vs composite fillings with your dentist.
- Ceramic fillings: Also known as porcelain inlays, ceramic fillings are made from a porcelain material that is strong and natural-looking. However, they can be more expensive than other options.
- Dental Crowns: For more extensive tooth decay or after root canal treatment, dental crowns might be recommended. There are different types of crowns available, including partial crowns and full crowns. Partial crowns, such as porcelain onlays, cover only part of the tooth, whereas full crowns cover the entire tooth. Gold crowns are a durable and long-lasting option, especially suitable for back teeth where the gold’s visibility is less of a concern.
Each of these options has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Consulting with your dentist will help you determine the best choice for your specific dental needs and aesthetic preferences.
Gold vs. Silver Fillings
When considering dental restorations, both gold and silver fillings are effective choices, each with advantages and drawbacks. Gold fillings, crafted from precious metals, have been a traditional filling material for centuries. They are known for their exceptional durability, longevity, and biocompatibility. Gold is less likely to cause adverse tissue reactions or gum irritation, making it a reliable choice for many patients. Additionally, gold fillings expand and contract at a rate similar to natural teeth, reducing the risk of cracks or fractures over time. However, their noticeable appearance and higher cost can be a deterrent for some patients.
On the other hand, silver amalgam fillings have been widely used as restorative materials due to their strength and affordability. Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, and mercury, these fillings are highly durable and can withstand significant chewing forces. However, the presence of mercury in silver amalgam fillings has raised concerns about mercury exposure and potential health risks. Some patients may also experience allergies to metals or adverse reactions to the amalgam metal mixture. Additionally, silver fillings are prone to causing gum irritation and do not blend with the natural tooth color, which can be a cosmetic drawback for those seeking a more natural appearance.
Care Tips for Gold Fillings
To ensure the longevity of your gold fillings, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily to remove plaque and food debris, and preventing recurrent decay. Also, visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings.
Maintaining a balanced diet is also crucial in reducing the risk of cavities and ensuring oral health. Limit sugary and acidic foods, which can contribute to tooth decay and weaken the natural tooth structure.
Additionally, avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or pencils, as these can damage your filings and teeth over time. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a mouthguard to protect your fillings and prevent further dental issues.
Conclusion
Gold fillings have been used for centuries and offer a unique blend of durability and biocompatibility. Crafted from high-quality gold alloy, these indirect fillings have stood the test of time, providing reliable and effective solutions for restoring damaged teeth. Their ability to expand and contract at the same rate as natural tooth structure helps prevent cracks and fractures, ensuring a long-lasting restoration.
While gold inlays may not be the first choice for those seeking a beautiful smile due to their noticeable appearance, they are an excellent option for areas with high chewing forces where aesthetics are less critical, such as the back molars.
For patients prioritizing a brighter smile, alternative options like composite resin or ceramic fillings may be more appealing. However, the decision between gold and other filling materials should be based on a thorough discussion with your dentist, considering factors such as durability, cost, and personal preferences.
