Gold teeth have been around for centuries, symbolizing wealth, status, and even style. Today, they are used both for medical and cosmetic purposes. But are gold teeth bad for you? Many people wonder whether gold crowns, fillings, and grillz can impact their oral health. So let’s find out!

Gold Crowns and Fillings: Biocompatibility and Durability

Gold has been a popular material in dentistry for decades. One of the biggest reasons is its excellent biocompatibility. Unlike some other metals used in dental work, gold doesn’t corrode or break down in the mouth. This makes it one of the safest materials for fillings and crowns. A gold crown is a dental cap that protects a damaged tooth. These crowns last much longer than porcelain or composite alternatives. In fact, gold crowns can last 20 to 30 years if properly cared for. This is because gold is a soft metal that absorbs biting forces without cracking or breaking.

Gold fillings, also known as gold inlays or onlays, are durable and don’t wear down as easily as other materials. Traditional fillings made of amalgam or composite can crack over time due to pressure from chewing. Gold fillings, however, expand and contract at a rate similar to natural teeth, reducing the risk of fractures. One of the few downsides is the cost. Gold is an expensive material, making gold crowns and fillings pricier than other dental restorations. However, the long lifespan and durability can make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Grillz: Potential Risks to Oral Health

Gold grillz have become a fashion statement in hip-hop culture, but they can come with some oral health risks. Unlike gold crowns or fillings, grillz are removable and sit on top of the teeth. If not cleaned properly, they can trap food and bacteria, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. One major issue is plaque buildup. When bacteria get trapped between the grillz and your teeth, they produce acids that erode tooth enamel. This can lead to cavities and bad breath. People who wear grillz for long periods without removing and cleaning them are at higher risk.

Another problem is the fit. If grillz are too tight, they can put pressure on the teeth and gums, leading to irritation or gum recession. Poorly fitting grillz can also cause abrasion on the tooth’s surface, wearing down enamel over time. Some grillz are made from cheap metals that can cause allergic reactions. It’s important to use high-quality, non-reactive materials like gold or platinum to avoid problems. Even then, regular dental checkups are recommended to ensure that wearing grillz doesn’t harm your teeth. To reduce risks, proper hygiene is essential. Remove grillz before eating, brush and floss regularly, and clean the grillz thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth. Dentists also recommend limiting the amount of time you wear them.

Gold Crowns: Preservation of Tooth Structure

One advantage of gold crowns over porcelain or ceramic options is that they require less removal of the natural tooth structure. Since gold is a strong and malleable material, crowns can be made thinner while still being durable. This means that more of your natural tooth can be preserved when placing a gold crown. To place a traditional crown, a dentist must remove part of the natural tooth to create space. With porcelain or ceramic crowns, more of the tooth needs to be shaved down to ensure the crown fits properly. Gold crowns, however, don’t need as much preparation, making them a conservative option for tooth restoration.

Gold crowns are also gentle on opposing teeth. Some materials, like porcelain, can wear down the teeth they bite against. This can lead to problems like tooth sensitivity and enamel erosion. Gold, being softer, doesn’t cause as much wear on opposing teeth. The disadvantage of gold crowns is their appearance. Since they don’t match the natural color of teeth, some people prefer porcelain crowns for visible areas like the front teeth. However, for molars and back teeth, gold crowns remain a great option due to their durability and tooth-preserving benefits.

Longevity of Gold Fillings

One reason people choose gold fillings is their exceptional longevity. While composite resin fillings last about 7 to 10 years, gold fillings can last 20 years or more with proper care. Gold fillings are considered one of the most durable options for restoring cavities. They don’t shrink or break like composite fillings, and they maintain their integrity over time. This means fewer replacements, saving money in the long run.

Another advantage is less sensitivity. Some people experience tooth sensitivity with silver or composite fillings, especially when eating hot or cold foods. Gold doesn’t conduct temperature changes as much, reducing the risk of pain and discomfort. The only real downside is the higher cost compared to other materials. Gold fillings are more expensive upfront, but their durability makes them a long-term investment. If you want a filling that will last for decades, gold is an excellent choice.

Allergic Reactions and Side Effects

While gold is biocompatible, some people may still experience allergic reactions or mild side effects. Most dental gold used in crowns and fillings is mixed with other metals like silver, copper, or palladium. If someone has a metal allergy, they might react to these additional metals rather than gold itself.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include redness, swelling, gum irritation, or mouth discomfort. If you have a known sensitivity to metals, it’s important to discuss this with your dentist before getting a gold restoration. Another issue is galvanic shock, which occurs when gold fillings come into contact with another metal in the mouth, like an amalgam filling. This creates an electric current, leading to a mild shock sensation. While rare, it can be uncomfortable for some people. To avoid any complications, always talk to your dentist before choosing gold for dental work. They can determine if it’s the right material for you based on your oral health and medical history.

Conclusions

Gold teeth have both benefits and risks. When used in crowns and fillings, gold is a durable, biocompatible, and long-lasting material. It preserves tooth structure, reduces wear on opposing teeth, and can last for decades. However, gold grillz, if not maintained properly, can cause tooth decay and gum problems. Additionally, some people may experience allergic reactions or mild discomfort. The key to keeping gold teeth safe is proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. This is why we invite you to schedule an appointment with Knoxville Family Dental today – we can help you decide if a procedure is right for you.