Materials
Gold alloy
A gold alloy is a blend of gold with metals such as copper and platinum that dentists have long used for inlays, onlays, and crowns.
Dental gold is not pure gold. It is mixed with other metals to make it hard enough to chew on. The ADA says gold fillings, also called inlays or onlays, are composed of an alloy of gold, copper and other metals. A gold piece is made in a dental lab from an impression of your tooth, so it takes more than one visit. Gold wears gently against opposing teeth and can last a long time, but its color stands out. Some people choose tooth-colored options such as porcelain or zirconia instead. See inlay, onlay, and our dental crown page.