A gold tooth implant is a type of dental implant that is made from a gold alloy instead of titanium or other materials commonly used in dental implants. 

While gold tooth implants may be more expensive than other types of dental implants, such as a single tooth implant, they are a popular choice for individuals who are looking for a high-quality, long-lasting solution for missing or damaged teeth.

How does the implant procedure work for gold teeth?

The process of getting a gold tooth implant typically involves several steps, including a consultation with a dental professional, the surgery itself, and a recovery period. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each stage of the process:

Consultation

During your consultation, your dental professional will examine your mouth and teeth to determine if a single tooth implant such as a gold tooth implant is the right choice for you. 

They may also take X-rays or other imaging to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and surrounding teeth. Your dental professional will discuss your options for implants, including the benefits and potential risks associated with each type of implant.

Surgery

Once you have decided to proceed with a gold tooth implant, the surgery will be scheduled. During the surgery, your dental professional will  place a small titanium post into your jawbone. 

This post will serve as the foundation for your gold tooth implant. After the post is inserted, your dental professional will protect the implant with a healing cap. Modern procedures are performed with Key-hole surgery, which are less invasive and do not need  sutures.

Recovery

After the surgery, you will need to follow your dental professional’s instructions for post-operative care. This may include taking pain medication, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and eating soft foods for a period of time. It’s important to avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or engaging in strenuous activity that could disrupt the healing process. 

Your dental professional may also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your implant.

What are the benefits of gold tooth implants?

There are several advantages to choosing a gold tooth implant over other materials commonly used in a single tooth implant:

Durability

Gold is an incredibly strong and durable metal, which is less likely to break or fracture compared to other materials.

Biocompatibility

Gold is also a biocompatible material, which means that it is well-tolerated by the human body. Gold implants may be a safe option for  patients with allergy to other metals or alloys.

Aesthetic appeal

Gold tooth implants are not tooth coloured, but they may be particularly appealing for patients who want to maintain a traditional or vintage appearance. Gold is a lustrous and attractive metal, and it can be polished to a high shine..

Corrosion resistance

Gold is highly resistant to corrosion, which means that it is less likely to corrode or degrade over time. This can help ensure that your implant remains stable and functional for many years to come.

How can I care for my gold tooth implant?

Practise good oral hygiene

Regular brushing and flossing are important for keeping your implant clean and preventing bacteria from building up around the implant site. Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean around the implant.

Avoid hard or sticky foods

Hard or sticky foods can potentially damage or dislodge the implant. Try to avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candy, and avoid sticky foods like chewing gum or caramel that can stick to the implant and cause damage.

Visit your dentist regularly

Regular checkups with your dentist can help catch any potential issues with your implant early on. Your dentist can also perform professional cleanings and maintenance to keep your implant in good condition.

Be gentle when brushing or flossing

Avoid using excessive force when brushing or flossing around the implant. This can potentially damage the surrounding tissues..

Avoid smoking

Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure and can lead to gum disease, which can also affect the implant. If you smoke, consider quitting to reduce these risks.

Consider a mouthguard

If you participate in sports or other activities that may cause trauma to the mouth, consider using a mouthguard to protect your implant.

Gold tooth implant maintenance: regular check-ups and professional care for optimal health

Patients who have undergone dental gold implant procedures need to prioritise regular dental check-ups to ensure the long-term success and maintenance of their implants. 

While dental gold implants are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits are essential for their overall health and functionality. Regular check-ups allow the dentist to examine the implant site, assess the surrounding gums, and monitor the condition of the implant itself. This ensures early detection of any potential issues such as gum inflammation, infection, or loosening of the implant. 

Additionally, professional cleanings during these check-ups help prevent plaque buildup, which can contribute to gum disease and compromise the stability of the implant. By staying proactive with regular dental check-ups, patients can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their dental gold implants.

Are there any risks to a gold tooth implant?

As with any dental procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with a gold tooth implant. Here are some possible risks:

  • Any surgical procedure carries the risk of infection, and a gold tooth implant is no exception. Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to minimise the risk of infection.
  • Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to gold. It’s important to inform your dentist if you have a known allergy to gold or any other metals.
  • The implant placement process involves drilling into the jawbone, which can potentially damage nearby nerves. This can lead to numbness or tingling in the surrounding areas. This is minimised by the use of 3D scans and guided surgery.
  • In some cases, the implant may not properly fuse with the bone or may become loose over time, leading to implant failure.
  • Gold tooth implants tend to be more expensive than other types of dental implants due to the cost of the material.