Please note we may not offer this procedure at our Denton dental office. Please call (940) 566-4888 to learn more.
Discover the Strength and Longevity of Gold Fillings
Gold fillings offer unmatched durability and a legacy of dental excellence. Though not commonly requested today, they remain a reliable choice for restoring decayed or damaged teeth. Whether you’re curious about this classic restoration or exploring alternatives, our Denton, TX, dental professionals at Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are here to guide you.
To learn more about our dental filling options, call our Denton dental office today at (940) 566-4888.
What Are Gold Fillings?
Gold fillings, also called gold inlays or onlays, are custom-made dental restorations crafted from a combination of gold and other metals like silver, copper, and platinum. These materials create a durable and biocompatible solution for repairing teeth affected by decay or trauma. Known for their strength and longevity, gold fillings have been a trusted option in restorative dentistry for decades.
Benefits of Gold Fillings
Gold fillings offer numerous advantages that make them stand out among other dental filling materials:
- Exceptional Durability: Gold fillings can withstand significant biting forces, making them ideal for posterior teeth. With proper care, they often last 15 to 30 years or longer.
- Biocompatibility: Gold is well-tolerated by the human body and is less likely to cause allergic reactions than other filling materials.
- Precision Fit: Custom-made gold fillings are crafted to fit your tooth perfectly, minimizing gaps and reducing the risk of further tooth decay.
- Resistance to Corrosion: Unlike other materials, gold doesn’t tarnish or corrode, maintaining its integrity over time.
- Minimal Sensitivity: Gold fillings cause less tooth sensitivity compared to silver amalgam, making them a more comfortable option for many patients.
- Strong and Resilient Material: Gold’s resilience ensures long-term protection for your natural tooth structure.
Disadvantages of Gold Fillings
While gold fillings are highly beneficial, they come with some drawbacks to consider:
- Aesthetic Concerns: The gold color is highly visible and may not suit patients prioritizing a natural-looking smile.
- Cost: Gold fillings are more expensive than other options due to the filling material’s value and the custom fabrication process.
- Multiple Appointments: Placing gold fillings typically requires two or more dental visits.
- Tooth Removal: Preparing the tooth for a gold filling may require removing more tooth structure than other materials.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, patients may experience sensitivity to gold alloys.
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 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
Gold fillings typically range from $250 to $2,000 per tooth, depending on factors such as:
- The size of the filling
- The location of the tooth
- The current market value of gold
Dental insurance may cover part of the cost, but it’s best to consult your provider for specifics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, gold tooth fillings are safe and biocompatible, with a long history of effective use in dentistry.
While possible, the visibility of gold fillings makes them better suited for back teeth. Your dentist will provide alternative options to gold fillings.
With proper care, gold fillings can last 15 to 30 years or longer, significantly outlasting many other types of fillings.
The gold filling procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Restore Your Oral Health at Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you’re considering dental fillings or have questions about your options, our experienced dentists, Dr. Patrick Ruehle and Dr. Erika Eide, can help. Call Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today at (940) 566-4888 to schedule your consultation.
We proudly serve Denton, TX, and nearby communities, including Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum. Your oral health deserves the best care—schedule your appointment today!