Are Gold Crowns Still Used? Pros, Cons, and Modern Alternatives
Gold crowns have a long history in dentistry — in fact, they were once considered the gold standard (pun intended) for strength and longevity. But with today’s wide range of natural-looking materials, many patients wonder: Are gold crowns still used?
At Edmonton Smiles, we want you to feel confident about your dental restoration choices. Let’s dive into whether gold crowns are still a viable option, the pros and cons of gold crowns, and the modern alternatives that may better suit your needs.
Are Gold Crowns Still Used Today?
Yes, gold crowns are still used — although not as frequently as they were a few decades ago. With the rise of tooth-colored options like porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia, most patients today prefer materials that blend in with their natural smile. However, gold crowns continue to be a reliable solution in specific clinical situations where strength, durability, and long-term performance are key.
Gold is especially beneficial for back teeth that endure the most pressure during chewing. These areas typically aren’t visible when you smile, making gold’s distinctive color less of an issue.
At Edmonton Smiles, we continue to offer gold crowns for patients who want a time-tested option known for strength, longevity, and biocompatibility.
Situations where gold crowns may still be the preferred option:
- Back molars, where high chewing forces require extra strength
- Patients who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism) and need a durable material
- Individuals looking for restorations with a proven lifespan of 20+ years
- People who have allergic reactions or sensitivity to other dental materials
- Cases where minimal tooth reduction is preferred during crown preparation
While gold crowns may not be the default choice today, they remain a smart and effective solution in the right circumstances.
Pros of Gold Crowns
Gold crowns offer a range of advantages that are difficult to replicate with other crown materials. While they may not match the natural color of teeth, their performance in strength, longevity, and compatibility with the body makes them a smart option in many cases.
- Exceptional Durability
Gold is highly resistant to wear, cracking, and corrosion. It doesn’t chip like porcelain or weaken over time the way some ceramics can. A properly placed gold crown can last 20 to 40 years — in many cases, even longer. For patients who want a long-lasting restoration that won’t break down under stress, gold remains one of the strongest options available. - Gentle on Opposing Teeth
Unlike harder materials such as porcelain or zirconia, gold is softer than enamel. This means it causes significantly less wear on the teeth it bites against. For patients who grind or clench their teeth (a condition known as bruxism), this makes gold a safer and more forgiving material that helps protect the surrounding dentition. - Precise Fit
Gold can be cast with exceptional accuracy and doesn’t require as much bulk for strength. Because of this, gold crowns can be made thinner than other materials, allowing the dentist to preserve more of your natural tooth structure during preparation. A thinner crown often means a more comfortable fit and easier long-term maintenance. - Biocompatibility
Gold is very well-tolerated by the body and rarely causes allergic reactions or irritation. Unlike some metal alloys that contain nickel or chromium, high-quality gold crowns are an excellent option for patients who have sensitivities to certain metals. Its chemical stability also makes it a safe long-term choice for dental restorations. - Long-Term Value
Although gold crowns typically cost more upfront due to the material and craftsmanship involved, their durability and lower risk of replacement can make them more cost-effective over time. For patients who want to minimize the likelihood of needing future dental work on the same tooth, a gold crown may provide the best return on investment.
Cons of Gold Crowns
Despite their many strengths, gold crowns are not the right fit for everyone. Depending on your personal preferences, budget, and insurance coverage, you may want to consider these potential drawbacks:
1. Aesthetic Appearance
The most noticeable downside to gold crowns is their color. Gold does not blend in with natural teeth, so it can stand out—especially when placed on visible front teeth. For patients concerned about the look of their smile, this can be a dealbreaker. That’s why gold crowns are typically reserved for molars or areas of the mouth that are not easily seen when you talk or smile.
2. Cost
Gold is a precious metal, and its price continues to fluctuate with the market. As a result, gold crowns are often among the most expensive types of dental crowns available. In addition to the cost of the material itself, the fabrication process for a high-quality gold crown requires precision and expertise, which can add to the total treatment cost.
3. Potential Metal Sensitivity
While gold itself is well-tolerated by most people, gold crowns are rarely made of 100% pure gold. They are usually mixed with other metals such as copper, nickel, or chromium to increase strength and workability. Some patients may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to these alloying metals. If you’ve experienced metal allergies in the past, it’s important to discuss this with your dentist before choosing a gold crown.
4. Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance plans vary, but many provide limited coverage for gold crowns. Because they are often considered a premium or elective material—especially when tooth-colored options are available—your plan may cover a smaller portion of the cost. Patients should check with their insurance provider in advance to understand their benefits and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Modern Alternatives to Gold Crowns
While gold crowns still have a place in dentistry, advancements in materials have made tooth-colored options more appealing to most patients. These modern alternatives provide a strong combination of durability, natural appearance, and function—making them ideal for both front and back teeth depending on your specific dental needs.
Here are some of the most popular and effective options available today:
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are a top choice for patients who want their dental restorations to blend seamlessly with their natural teeth. They provide excellent cosmetic results and are often used on visible front teeth.
- Closely mimic the color and translucency of natural teeth
- Best suited for front teeth or areas that show when smiling
- Provide good strength but can be more prone to chipping than gold, especially under heavy bite pressure
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the tooth-like appearance of porcelain. They strike a balance between durability and esthetics.
- Durable metal substructure offers strength and support
- Porcelain overlay provides a tooth-colored appearance
- Can be used in both front and back teeth
- Over time, the metal base may cause a visible gray or dark line at the gumline
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a newer material that has become increasingly popular for its unmatched combination of strength and natural appearance. It’s a top choice for patients who want both function and aesthetics.
- Extremely durable and resistant to cracks or fractures
- Tooth-colored and highly esthetic
- Suitable for both front and back teeth
- Well-tolerated and biocompatible for most patients
Composite Resin Crowns
Composite resin crowns are often used as a more affordable, short-term solution. While not as strong as porcelain or zirconia, they can be a useful option for certain situations.
- Lower upfront cost compared to other crown materials
- Best suited for temporary use or for areas of the mouth with less chewing force
- Less durable and may wear down more quickly over time
At Edmonton Smiles, we offer a full range of crown materials to match your lifestyle, oral health, and budget. Whether you’re looking for strength, appearance, or affordability, we’ll help you choose the solution that fits your unique situation.
When Might a Gold Crown Still Be the Best Option?
While gold crowns are less common in modern cosmetic dentistry, they still provide unmatched benefits in specific situations. For patients who need maximum strength, long-term reliability, or have certain sensitivities, gold may remain the smartest and most effective choice.
Here are some scenarios where a gold crown could be ideal:
- Back molars that endure heavy chewing pressure
Gold’s durability makes it perfect for molars, where strong bite forces occur daily. - Patients who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism)
Gold is gentle on opposing teeth and resists wear, reducing the risk of damage from clenching. - Those who prioritize function and longevity over appearance
In areas not visible when smiling, gold offers a worry-free, long-lasting solution. - People with allergies or sensitivities to other crown materials
High-quality gold alloys are typically biocompatible and less likely to cause irritation. - Patients looking for the most cost-effective long-term investment
Though the initial cost is higher, gold crowns often outlast other types, saving replacement costs down the line.
If your main concern is strength, minimal wear on surrounding teeth, or avoiding multiple replacements, a gold crown might still be the right option — especially for hard-working back teeth.
Final Thoughts: Should You Choose a Gold Crown?
While gold crowns are no longer the go-to choice for visible teeth, they still offer unmatched durability and performance in specific situations — especially for back molars and patients who place a premium on long-term strength.
At Edmonton Smiles, we take a personalized approach to your care. We’ll walk you through every option — from gold and zirconia to porcelain and composite — and help you choose the crown that fits your needs, preferences, and budget.
Ready to explore your crown options?
Book a consultation with our team at Edmonton Smiles and get the lasting protection your smile deserves.