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Have you ever wondered why gold, silver, platinum and palladium — precious metals — are used in dental work? You might be thinking that these metals are highly valuableby the ounce or gram— so what’s the point of using such expensive substances when cheaper alternatives exist, like plastic or other metals?
In this article, we’ll run down the primary reasons why precious metals are still relied on in important dental procedures. As you’ll see, it’s not all about having a flashy smile!
Dental Metals and Scrap Refining
First, a short word on dental refining and its role in sustainable dentistry. Dental clinics will often collect the ‘scrap’ that comes from extracted precious metals, then send it along to a professional refining company, such as Muzeum Dental Refining (a leader in the field). After analysis and an exacting breakdown of components, companies like Muzeumpay dental clinics for the gold, silver, platinum, and palladium included in their shipment.
So, while it’s not strictly a reason why dentists use these substances, it’s definitely an amazing perk of the trade! Precious metal recovery is a way for clinics to get environmental and economical kickbacks from the use of essential tools that would otherwise go to landfill.
Chemically Inert and Non-Toxic
Precious metals have a solid track record for not harming human hosts. Since they’re chemically inert, they won’t trigger irritations, allergic reactions, or inflammations of oral tissue while inside the mouth (allergic reactions from silver and goldare extremely rare). They’re non-toxic, and can withstand fluctuations in pH levels, temperatures, exposure to other implants as well as food and drink.
Non-Reactive and Resistant to Corrosion
Gold and other precious metals are highly resistant to corrosion. The oral environment is naturally warm, though exposed to shifts in temperature; it’s also bathed in saliva. These factors demand that prosthetics and implants are as long-lasting as possible. Precious metals are also non-reactive, meaning that they won’t tarnish or damage the appearance or cohesion of the application — even after decades inside the human mouth.
Durable, Malleable and Reliable
Manufacturers, engineers, scientists, craftspeople and artists have long appreciated the ductility and malleability of precious metals like gold and silver. Many kinds of dental work, including crowns, inlays, bridges and more,require custom-fits, fine details, and incredible precision. Thanks to their high melt points, gold and silver will keep their structural integrity; and they can also be alloyed easily with other metals depending on the requirements of the job.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Another noteworthy point is that precious metals have a distinct aesthetic appeal, depending on the patient. Some golds can be matched closely to the color of tooth enamel. Gold can also imitate the way teeth reflect light so that our smiles look both natural and seamless.Ultimately, the choice of dental materialsis a collaborative decision between a patient and the dental professional based on functional requirements and aesthetic preferences.
In Conclusion
While advancements in science and tech have introduced a variety of material options for dental restorations, precious metals continue to be used for several important and distinctive reasons. Next time you spot a flash of gold or silver, remember it’s not all about the glitter, but has so much more to do with craft, artistry, science, and biology.
