Please note we may not offer this procedure at our Wilmington and Seaford dental offices. Please call our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to learn more.
Why Choose Gold Fillings for Restorative Dental Procedures?
Gold fillings remain one of the most durable and reliable options for restoring damaged teeth. Known for their longevity and strength, they’re a top choice for patients who prioritize function and resilience over aesthetics. If you’re considering dental fillings in Wilmington or Seaford, DE, gold fillings might be the ideal solution for your oral health needs.
To learn more about the types of dental fillings offered at Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, contact our Wilmington and Seaford, DE, offices today by calling (302) 999-7600 or (302) 536-7589.
What Are Gold Fillings?
Gold fillings, sometimes referred to as gold inlays or onlays, are custom dental restorations made from a combination of gold and other metals, such as silver, copper, or platinum. This mixture ensures the filling is highly durable and resistant to wear. Used for decades, gold fillings are a trusted option for repairing decayed or damaged teeth and preserving the natural tooth structure.
Benefits of Gold Fillings
Gold fillings offer numerous advantages for patients seeking long-lasting restorative dental procedures:
- Durability and Strength: Gold fillings are highly resistant to wear and can endure significant biting and chewing forces. They often last 15 to 30 years or more with proper care.
- Biocompatibility: Gold is well-tolerated by oral tissues, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or sensitivities.
- Precision Fit: Custom-crafted in a dental laboratory, gold fillings ensure a tight seal and minimize the risk of recurrent decay.
- Corrosion Resistance: Unlike some other filling materials, gold does not corrode or tarnish over time, maintaining its integrity.
- Minimal Shrinkage: Gold fillings remain stable and do not contract after placement, reducing the likelihood of gaps or microleakage that could lead to further decay.
- Comfort: Patients often experience less tooth sensitivity compared to silver amalgam fillings.
Disadvantages of Gold Fillings
While gold fillings have many benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Aesthetic Concerns: Gold fillings are visible, making them less ideal for front teeth where aesthetics are a priority.
- Cost: Due to the price of gold and the custom fabrication process, gold fillings are more expensive than other options, such as composite resin fillings or silver amalgam.
- Multiple Appointments: The process of getting a gold filling involves multiple dental visits for preparation, impression-taking, and placement.
- Tooth Preparation: Gold fillings may require the removal of more natural tooth structure compared to other materials.
- Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some individuals may have sensitivities to the metals used in gold alloys.
Gold Fillings Process
Here’s what you can expect during the placement of gold dental fillings:
- Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, tooth damage, and suitability for gold fillings. A customized treatment plan will be created.
- Tooth Preparation: After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the cavity is shaped for the filling.
- Impression Taking: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory.
- Filling Fabrication: Skilled technicians create a gold filling that fits the exact contours of your tooth.
- Fitting and Cementing: During a follow-up visit, the gold filling is cemented securely into place.
- Polishing and Final Adjustments: The filling is polished for a smooth surface, and the dentist ensures it aligns properly with opposing teeth.
Cost of Gold Fillings in Wilmington and Seaford, DE
Gold fillings typically cost between $250 and $2,000 without insurance, depending on factors such as the size of the filling, the location of the tooth, and current gold market prices. While more expensive upfront, their longevity often makes them a cost-effective choice in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, gold fillings are safe and have been widely used for decades. They’re biocompatible and pose little risk of adverse reactions.
While technically possible, gold fillings are generally recommended for molars and premolars due to their visibility. Patients looking for a natural tooth appearance may prefer composite fillings or porcelain inlays for front teeth.
Gold fillings can last 15 to 30 years or more with proper care and regular dental checkups.
Insurance plans may partially cover gold fillings, though out-of-pocket costs are often higher than for other filling materials. Check with your provider for specifics on coverage.
Restore Your Oral Health at Brown and Baran Family Dentistry
If you need durable and effective dental restorations, Brown and Baran Family Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Paul Brown, Dr. Chris Baran, and their skilled dental teams in Wilmington and Seaford, DE, are dedicated to providing high-quality care. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by calling our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.
We proudly serve Wilmington, Seaford, and surrounding Delaware communities. For long-lasting solutions to tooth decay and damage, trust Brown and Baran Family Dentistry to restore your smile!
