Gold Crowns

Gold is one of the metallic materials used for indirect restorations. A crown covers a reshaped tooth and can protect it after the original tooth structure has been prepared.

The first crown appointment reshapes the tooth and takes an impression. A temporary crown is cemented over the tooth before the permanent crown is made.

Dental metal alloys are selected for fixed restorations and appliances. Base-metal alloys can be more likely than gold to create biocompatibility concerns, while gold is used as a metallic restorative material.

A crown needs daily cleaning to protect both the crown and the natural tooth. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth and limiting sugar intake help preserve it.

Two visits are usually involved. The tooth is reshaped and impressed at the first visit; when the laboratory crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed and the gold crown is cemented.

The permanent crown is generally fitted about two weeks after the first visit. The temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while the laboratory makes the final restoration.

Other metallic alloys, all-ceramic crowns and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are indirect restoration choices. A white filling or a porcelain veneer can sometimes avoid a full crown.

The first appointment prepares the tooth, records its shape and fits a temporary crown. The second visit cements the finished gold crown.

Gold crown treatment includes laboratory fabrication between the preparation and fitting visits. A temporary crown protects the tooth during that interval.