When it comes to your oral care, there are many choices to consider. From the type of toothpaste you use to the way you brush and floss, even the materials you choose for fillings can have a significant impact on your dental health. Let's take a closer look at gold fillings and explore their pros and cons to help you decide if they are the right choice for you.
What Are Gold Fillings?
Gold fillings are a type of dental restoration made from a mixture of gold and other metals like copper and platinum. This combination creates a strong, durable material that has been used in dentistry for over a century. Unlike other fillings, gold fillings are custom-made to fit the shape of your tooth, ensuring a precise and long-lasting fit.
Advantages of Gold Fillings
•
Durability: Gold fillings are known for their exceptional longevity. They can last for decades, often exceeding the lifespan of other filling materials like amalgam or composite resin. This durability makes them a cost-effective option in the long run, despite their higher initial cost.
•
Strength: Gold is a robust material, resistant to fractures and wear. This is particularly advantageous for fillings in high-stress areas of the mouth, like the back molars, where they are subjected to considerable chewing forces.
•
Biocompatibility: Gold is highly biocompatible, meaning it doesn't irritate the surrounding gum tissues or cause allergic reactions. This makes gold fillings a safe choice for people with sensitivities to other materials.
•
Aesthetics: While not as aesthetically pleasing as white fillings, gold fillings can be discreetly placed on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, making them less noticeable.
Disadvantages of Gold Fillings
•
Cost: Gold fillings are the most expensive type of filling available. The cost is primarily driven by the price of gold and the time required for fabrication. This can be a significant factor for some patients.
•
Aesthetics: Unlike tooth-colored fillings, gold fillings are quite noticeable. While some view the gold color as a sign of wealth and durability, others may prefer a more natural-looking restoration.
•
Procedure: Placing a gold filling typically requires multiple appointments. Your dentist will need to take impressions of your tooth to create a custom mold for the filling. This can be inconvenient for some individuals.
•
Conductivity: Gold is a good conductor of heat and cold. This can cause sensitivity to hot and cold foods or beverages, especially after placement. However, the sensitivity usually subsides over time.
Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a gold filling is a personal one. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages and discussing your individual needs and preferences with your dentist will help you make the most informed choice for your oral health. Remember, gold fillings offer exceptional durability and biocompatibility, making them a viable option for long-term restoration.
About Us | Dentist Burlington, MA | Dental Care of Burlington Above all else, we here at Dental Care of Burlington want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Learn more here. Dental Care of Burlington, 113 Terrace Ave, Unit 1, Burlington, MA 01803 ^ 781-362-2260 ^ dentalcareburlington.com ^ 9/17/2025 ^ Related Terms: dentist Burlington Ma ^
When it comes to your oral care, there are many choices to consider. From the type of toothpaste you use to the way you brush and floss, even the materials you choose for fillings can have a significant impact on your dental health. Let's take a closer look at gold fillings and explore their pros and cons to help you decide if they are the right choice for you.