Why Gold Dental Crowns Are Still Used (And Why They Last So Long)
Why Dentists Still Trust Gold Crowns
Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for decades, but many patients are still surprised when they hear gold is an option today. With so many tooth-colored materials available now, many patients think that gold has been left behind.
In reality, gold dental crowns still have a place in modern dentistry. They’re not usually chosen for the front of the smile, where appearance is the main concern, but they can be a strong option for certain teeth.
If your dentist brings up a gold crown, it doesn’t mean they are recommending something old-fashioned. It usually means they’re thinking about strength, durability, and what will hold up best for that specific tooth.
What are gold dental crowns?
A gold crown is basically a protective cover for a tooth that needs extra strength. The tooth may be cracked, worn down, heavily filled, or too weak to hold up on its own.
Despite the name, a gold crown isn’t made of pure gold. It’s typically made from a high gold alloy, which means gold is blended with other metals so the crown can handle everyday chewing better.
You’ll usually see gold crowns on back teeth. Those teeth take on a lot of pressure every time you bite, chew, or grind. Since they’re farther back, the color isn’t as noticeable as it would be on a front tooth, and it’s why they’re usually recommended when strength takes priority over appearance.
Why do dentists still recommend gold crowns?
Dentists may recommend a gold crown when a tooth needs strength but there’s not a lot of extra room to work with. A thinner layer of gold still holds up well to biting pressures, which means less tooth structure needs to be removed compared with some other crown materials.
Gold is also gentle on the teeth it comes into contact with. Some harder materials can wear down the opposing tooth over time, especially for patients who clench or grind. Gold has a little more give, so it can handle chewing pressure without being as rough on the tooth across from it.
Another reason dentists like gold is that it performs very predictably. It fits well, wears well, and has a long history of holding up in the mouth. For back teeth that take a lot of force every day, that kind of dependability can make a real difference.
Why do gold crowns last so long?
Gold crowns last a long time because the material can take a lot of daily wear. It’s naturally resistant to cracking and chipping, which is one reason dentists still consider it for teeth that do the hardest chewing.
Back teeth deal with heavy biting forces every day. A gold crown can handle that pressure well without becoming brittle. It also wears down in a way that is usually more forgiving than some harder crown materials that may be more prone to cracking or chipping.
When a gold crown fits well and is cared for properly, it can stay in place for many years. Some people keep them for decades. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups still matter, though. A crown can be strong, but the tooth and gum tissue around it still need to stay healthy.
Who’s a good candidate for a gold crown?
A gold crown can be a good fit for someone who puts a lot of pressure on their teeth. People who clench or grind may need a crown material that can handle that extra force without cracking as easily.
Gold is often considered for molars because those teeth do the hardest chewing. Since molars sit farther back in the mouth, appearance may not be as big of a concern as it would be for a front tooth. In that spot, strength can be more important than matching the exact shade of your smile.
Some patients also choose gold because they want something built to last. They may not mind the color if the crown is on a back tooth and the trade-off is long-term durability.
Of course, a gold crown is not the right choice for every tooth or every patient. Your dentist will look at the tooth, your bite, your habits, and your cosmetic preferences before recommending the best crown material.
Protect your tooth with the right crown.
Gold crowns may not be the first option patients think of today, but they still have a place for a reason. For certain back teeth, especially teeth that take on a lot of chewing pressure, gold can offer strength, durability, and long-term protection.
Choosing the right crown depends on the tooth, your bite, your habits, and how much appearance matters in that area of your smile. Dixon, Boles and Associates can walk you through your options and help you understand which material makes the most sense for your needs.
If you have a damaged, worn, or weakened tooth, schedule a visit today with your local family dentist in Wilson, NC, to talk about whether a gold crown or another crown option may be right for you.
