What does “Gold inlay” mean?
Gold inlay is a partial restoration made separately from a dental alloy containing gold and fixed to fit within the damaged area of the tooth. It is different in scope from a gold crown that surrounds the entire tooth.
It is made according to the shape of the damaged area.
After preparing the tooth, its shape is recorded using an impression or scan, and a restoration made to match it is installed. The production process is different from direct filling, where ingredients are filled and shaped right in the mouth.
Why use alloys?
Since gold itself is soft, it is used by alloying it with other metals to obtain the necessary properties for dental restorative purposes. The gold content or alloy type varies from product to product, so the ingredient cannot be determined just by the word gold.
First determine whether inlay is sufficient
If the extent of the damage is large and the remaining teeth need to be covered and protected, other types of restoration may be considered. Before choosing a metal material, it is important to determine which part of the tooth you want to keep and protect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between gold inlay and gold crown?
The inlay is placed on the prepared damaged area inside the tooth, and the crown is made to surround the crown of the tooth. Even if the gold alloy is the same, the coverage area is different.
If it's gold, do I not have to worry about metal allergies?
Gold alloys may contain other metals. If you have a history of reacting to metals, check the ingredients of the materials used in advance.
Questions needed to understand gold inlay
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Preservation of natural teeth
Can an inlay adequately protect the remaining tooth structure?
Explanation and evidenceFirst select a restoration type appropriate for the extent of tooth damage.
American Dental Association · Definition of Dental Terms - A choice suited to your condition
What are the alloy composition and visible color?
Explanation and evidenceConsider any history of reactions to the alloy components and where the metal color will be visible.
American Dental Association · Materials for Indirect Restorations
