Thinking about getting permanent gold teeth, or just curious how long they really last? Whether you’re drawn to their shine, their cultural significance, or their durability, many people wonder how “permanent” gold teeth truly are.
It’s an important question—your smile is an investment, and knowing what to expect helps you make confident choices.
This article will explain exactly how permanent gold teeth are, what factors impact their lifespan, and key tips for taking care of them.
Related Video
What Are Permanent Gold Teeth?
Permanent gold teeth are dental restorations made from gold or gold alloy, designed to replace, repair, or cover teeth permanently. Unlike removable grillz or temporary caps, these dental solutions are intended to stay in place for years—sometimes decades—inside your mouth. Dentists use gold primarily for crowns, bridges, and occasionally in dental implants or fillings.
The tradition of using gold in dentistry goes back centuries, but today it is as much a fashion statement as a practical choice. If you are considering permanent gold teeth, it’s important to understand the procedure, benefits, drawbacks, and associated costs.
Types of Permanent Gold Teeth
Let’s break down the most common types of permanent gold dental restorations:
1. Gold Crowns
A gold crown is a cap that covers and protects a damaged tooth. It’s crafted to fit over your existing tooth and is cemented securely in place.
– Used for front or back teeth.
– Often chosen for molars due to strength.
2. Gold Inlays and Onlays
These are partial gold fillings used when a cavity or tooth damage is too large for a standard filling but not extensive enough for a full crown.
– Inlays fit inside the cusp tips of the tooth.
– Onlays extend to cover one or more cusps.
3. Gold Dental Implants
This option replaces the entire tooth. The post rooted into your jawbone is often titanium, but the visible part (implant crown) can be made of gold.
– Designed to last many years.
– Mimics the appearance of natural teeth—with a golden twist.
How Permanent Are Gold Teeth?
Gold dental restorations are among the most durable options. Here’s what makes them nearly permanent:
- Longevity: With proper care, gold crowns and fillings can last 20-40 years or more—often outlasting other dental materials.
- Resilience: Gold resists cracking, breaking, and corrosion, making it ideal for chewing and grinding surfaces.
- Biocompatibility: Gold is gentle on the gums and surrounding teeth, minimizing the risk of irritation or adverse reactions.
However, while gold teeth are long-lasting, “permanent” means they are not meant to be removed except by a dental professional. Restoration may be needed if the tooth underneath suffers damage or decay.
The Procedure: Getting Permanent Gold Teeth
Wondering what to expect? Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting permanent gold teeth:
1. Consultation and Assessment
- Your dentist examines your teeth and overall oral health.
- X-rays may be taken to assess the condition beneath the enamel.
2. Tooth Preparation
- Damaged or decayed portions are removed.
- The tooth is shaped to fit the gold restoration.
- For implants, the dentist prepares your jawbone and places an implant post.
3. Impressions Taken
- Impressions (molds) of your teeth are made to ensure a precise fit.
- The mold is sent to a dental lab where your gold restoration is custom-crafted.
4. Temporary Placement (if needed)
- A temporary crown or cap protects your tooth while the gold piece is being made.
- For implants, a healing period follows before the final crown is placed.
5. Final Placement
- Your gold crown, inlay, or implant crown is fitted and cemented or screwed into place.
- Adjustments ensure a comfortable, natural bite.
Benefits of Permanent Gold Teeth
Choosing gold offers more than just style. Here are the key advantages:
- Exceptional Durability: Gold is resistant to wear, fracture, and corrosion, even in high-pressure areas like back molars.
- Precise Fit: Gold can be shaped with high accuracy, providing a snug, comfortable fit.
- Gentle on Teeth and Gums: Gold doesn’t cause abrasion to opposing teeth and rarely triggers gum sensitivity.
- Hygiene-Friendly: Gold’s smooth surface makes it hard for bacteria to adhere, reducing the risk of decay.
- Biocompatibility: Allergic reactions to high-quality gold are extremely rare.
Challenges and Considerations
While gold has many strengths, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks:
- Aesthetic Concerns: Gold is not tooth-colored. This makes it less popular for people wanting a natural look, especially on front teeth.
- Cost: Gold is a precious metal and, combined with the dental work required, can become expensive.
- Insurance Coverage: Some dental insurance plans may not cover gold restorations, particularly if they are chosen for cosmetic reasons.
- Allergies: Rare, but possible, in cases involving gold alloys with other metals.
- Maintenance: While gold is low-maintenance, the underlying tooth and surrounding gum still require diligent care.
Step-by-Step Care for Your Gold Teeth
Permanent gold teeth need care much like your natural teeth. Here’s how to keep them shining and healthy:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft toothbrush; gold doesn’t corrode, but plaque can still build up.
- Floss Daily: Especially important around gold crowns and implants to prevent gum disease.
- Routine Dental Visits: See your dentist every six months for cleaning and to check for problems under or around your gold restoration.
- Avoid Hard Foods: While gold is strong, very hard foods can still chip or damage the underlying tooth.
- Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Protects remaining natural teeth and helps prevent new decay.
Practical Tips for Prospective Gold Tooth Owners
Thinking about taking the golden leap? Keep these pointers in mind:
- Discuss with Your Dentist: Only a professional can tell if gold crowns or implants suit your dental needs.
- Choose the Right Shade: Dental gold alloys can appear yellow or white, depending on the metal blend.
- Consider Longevity: Gold is often better suited for molars or less-visible teeth.
- Plan Financially: Check insurance coverage and prepare for out-of-pocket expenses.
- Be Confident: Gold teeth can be a bold fashion statement and a symbol of success, embraced by many cultures worldwide.
Cost Considerations for Permanent Gold Teeth
Gold teeth are a significant investment. Here’s what you need to know about costs:
Factors Affecting the Cost
- Type of Restoration: Crowns, implants, inlays, and onlays all have different price points.
- Gold Content: Higher gold content means a higher price tag.
- Dental Labor: Complex procedures or specialist care can increase fees.
- Location: Costs vary based on city, country, and local metal prices.
General Price Ranges
- Gold Crowns: $800 to $2,500 or more per tooth.
- Gold Implants: $2,000 to $5,000 or more per implant (not including preliminary work).
- Gold Inlays/Onlays: $650 to $1,200 per tooth.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Shop Around: Get quotes from several qualified dentists.
- Check Insurance: Ask if any part of the procedure is covered, especially for medically necessary restoration.
- Ask About Payment Plans: Many clinics offer financing or payment options.
- Inquire About Metal Blend: Blends with lower gold content are less expensive, but might not offer the same benefits.
Permanent Gold Teeth: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Let’s summarize the key advantages and challenges:
Pros
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Custom fit and comfortable
- Less likely to cause tooth wear or gum issues
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Price can be high
- Not tooth-colored, which may be a concern for front teeth
- Insurance coverage varies
- Rare allergic reactions possible
Conclusion
Permanent gold teeth are both a highly functional dental solution and a dazzling personal statement. They offer unmatched durability and biocompatibility, but come with esthetic and financial considerations. If you’re drawn to the idea of “gold in your smile,” consult a qualified dentist, understand your options, and weigh the long-term benefits against short-term costs.
By caring for your gold teeth and following your dentist’s advice, you can enjoy their benefits for decades—maybe even a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are permanent gold teeth safe?
Yes. Dental gold is highly biocompatible and rarely causes allergic reactions. However, as with any dental procedure, it’s important to use a qualified professional and let your dentist know about any sensitivities.
2. How long do gold dental crowns or implants last?
With good oral hygiene, gold crowns can last 20–40 years or more. Implants with gold crowns are similarly durable, often lasting decades with proper care.
3. Do gold teeth require special maintenance?
Not really. Care for gold crowns or implants just like your natural teeth—brush twice daily, floss, and visit your dentist regularly.
4. Can gold teeth be used for front teeth?
Yes, but most people opt for gold on molars or less-visible teeth due to gold’s distinctive color. Some choose gold for front teeth as a style choice.
5. Is it possible to remove permanent gold teeth?
Yes, but only by a dental professional. Permanent gold restorations are designed to stay in place, but can be removed or replaced if needed (for underlying tooth issues or by choice).
Permanent gold teeth come with their own unique set of benefits and challenges. By considering both the practical and esthetic aspects—and seeking advice from dental professionals—you can make the right choice for your dental health and your personal style.