Gold Inlays May be the Best Choice for Filling Teeth

When a defective silver or composite filling requires replacing, few dentists or patients consider gold inlays. Unfortunately, most dentists received little training in this advanced technique while in dental school. In fact, less than 10% of dental schools even teach gold inlays, and most of that teaching is in the classroom only. Those fortunate few dental students at Universities like UCLA, USC, Washington, Oregon, and a few others, received extensive pre-doctoral education in this underutilized, commonly misunderstood treatment option. Fortunately, enough dentists are indeed trained adequately to offer this conservative and long lasting alternative.

Dentists who are conscientious and technically skilled may opt to receive post-graduate, study club training with renowned gold inlay expert mentors. These dentists are more likely to give the gold inlay as an alternative option to less long lasting alternatives like ceramic inlays or composite fillings. The biggest concern that patients express is that gold will look ugly and will potentially interfere with a pleasing smile. This is a common and understandable concern, however, if skillfully placed, the gold inlay is invisible, and actually preserves enamel, rather than replacing or covering it. Gold inlays are more expensive initially than composite fillings but research has shown that gold inlays last 4 or more times longer, and reduce approximately the same amount of tooth structure. Ask you dentist: "If you were to restore your upper first molar with a two surface restoration, what would you choose?" When they pause, ask your dentist to show you their teeth - you'd be surprised to find gold in most mouths...Dentists do indeed know best, however, it's much easier to push white/tooth colored materials, as it requires little explanation. If a dentist is completely honest and has a reasonable understanding about longevity, function, esthetics, and biocompatibility, the choice is clear, the gold inlay.

For more information about gold inlays, please visit arvcst.net, or send me an email.

Dr. Rich

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