Are gold fillings a good idea?

Gold fillings were stylish at fixed points in history. What was popularized by pop culture individuals is now most commonly reserved for out-of-sight molars (back teeth).

If there are filling options that look more like teeth, then why would someone want gold fillings that stand out?

Well, it might come as a surprise, but gold fillings have benefits that porcelain and other materials cannot achieve. 

Durability

Gold fillings are the most durable of all options. Gold itself is a sturdy material. While no filling lasts forever, gold lasts the longest. 

It is also usually paired with other metal alloys that are very strong, like titanium. The cost of gold fillings reflects the durability, but for many, it is worth it. They can last up to 20 years!

Malleability

Because gold, especially paired with other alloys, is so malleable, it creates a firm filling. It fits nearly perfectly to the tooth, helping with durability and bacteria resistance.

Health

Unless the patient has a metal allergy, gold is known to cause no poor side effects as a filling. Gold is a very compatible metal with biology, making it a perfect option for dentistry.

Consider Gold

Maybe you don’t love the visible appearance of gold. That’s alright! You would be with the majority. The beautiful thing about gold fillings is that they are an ideal fit for molars. Molars take much of the brunt of our chewing, so durability in molar fillings is a top priority. They are also the very back teeth and hard to spot in a smile. You might know more people with gold fillings than you have noticed.

If you are still unsure of your preference, a dentist at Midland Dental would be happy to walk you through your best filling options. Give us a call today!