Gold Crowns

What Is a Gold Crown?

A gold crown is a dental restoration made using a gold-containing dental alloy. It is designed to fit over a prepared tooth and restore its shape and function.

Unlike tooth-coloured crowns, gold crowns have a distinctive metallic appearance. They are often considered for teeth towards the back of the mouth, where appearance may be less of a concern, and the restoration needs to withstand the forces of chewing.

The exact material used will depend on the type of restoration recommended by your dentist.

When Might You Need a Gold Crown?

Your dentist may recommend a crown when a tooth has been affected by:

• Extensive tooth decay
• A large filling or previous restoration
• Cracks or structural damage
• Significant tooth wear
• Previous root canal treatment
• Damage that cannot be adequately restored with a filling

Gold crowns may be particularly suitable for certain back teeth, depending on the individual tooth and your bite.

Your dentist will assess the tooth and discuss whether a gold crown is an appropriate option.

What Happens During Gold Crown Treatment?

Crown treatment generally involves more than one appointment.

Your dentist will first examine the tooth and discuss your treatment options. If a gold crown is recommended, the tooth is carefully prepared to create the space required for the restoration.

Measurements or impressions are then taken so that the crown can be made to fit the prepared tooth. Depending on your treatment, a temporary restoration may be provided while the permanent crown is being made.

At the next appointment, the completed crown is checked for its fit and bite before being fitted to the tooth.

Your dentist will explain each stage of the treatment and answer any questions you may have.

Why Consider a Gold Crown?

Gold crowns have several properties that can make them suitable for certain restorative cases:

• Strong and durable material: Gold alloys can withstand the forces placed on teeth during chewing.
• Suitable for back teeth: They may be considered where a tooth requires a strong restoration.
• Good fit: Gold crowns can be made to fit closely around the prepared tooth.
• Longstanding restorative option: Gold has been used in dentistry for many years.

However, gold crowns have a noticeable metallic appearance. If you would prefer a tooth-coloured restoration, your dentist can discuss alternatives such as porcelain-bonded, all-ceramic or zirconia crowns where appropriate.

Is a Gold Crown Right for You?

The most suitable crown material depends on several factors, including the position of the tooth, its condition, your bite and your personal preferences.

A gold crown may be considered for a back tooth where strength and function are important. For other teeth, a tooth-coloured crown may be more appropriate.

During your consultation, your dentist will explain the available options and help you understand the advantages and limitations of each type of crown.

Caring for Your Gold Crown

A crowned tooth still requires regular care. Continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean carefully between your teeth.

Good oral hygiene helps maintain the health of the tooth and gums around the crown. Regular dental examinations also allow your dentist to check the crown and monitor the surrounding teeth.

If you notice discomfort, sensitivity, a change in the crown or any other concern, contact the practice for an assessment.