Gold crowns are one of the most durable dental crown options, typically used for back teeth where strength is a priority. This page explains the characteristics of gold crowns, how they compare to other crown types, the treatment process, costs, and risks.
All costs on this page are indicative. Full costs will be discussed with your dentist prior to treatment and may vary based on your individual case.
Gold crowns offer several characteristics that make them suited to certain clinical situations:
Minimal tooth preparation: Gold crowns can be fitted with less tooth reduction than some other crown materials, allowing more natural tooth structure to be retained.
Suitability for teeth grinding: Gold crowns are more resistant to wear from grinding or clenching (bruxism) than some other crown types. Your dentist can also discuss management of teeth grinding to reduce further wear on your other teeth.
Corrosion resistance: Gold is resistant to corrosion from bacteria and acids in the mouth, which can contribute to a longer functional lifespan.
Strength and durability: Gold crowns are strong and typically suited to back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. With appropriate care, gold crowns can last 20 to 30 years, though individual results vary.
Cost: Gold crowns are among the more expensive crown options due to the material cost.
Appearance: Gold does not match the colour of natural teeth. For this reason, gold crowns are typically only placed on back teeth.
Allergic reaction risk: Although gold is biocompatible, allergic reactions can occur, particularly in individuals with sensitivities to other metals. Gold crowns typically contain other metals including chromium, nickel, and palladium. Your dentist will provide a full list of materials before placement.
At Gorgeous Smiles, several crown types are available:
Porcelain crowns — tooth-coloured and translucent, designed to match natural teeth.
Stainless steel crowns — often used as temporary crowns for children and adults.
Zirconia crowns — strong and durable, often used for back teeth. May be suitable for patients with sensitive teeth.
Resin crowns — made from high-quality dental plastic, colour-matched to natural teeth.
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns — feature a metal core with a porcelain outer layer, combining strength with a tooth-coloured appearance.
Your dentist will assess your clinical situation and discuss which crown type is most appropriate for the tooth being treated, its location, your bite, and your oral health.
All costs are indicative. Full costs will be discussed prior to treatment.
A gold dental crown typically costs between $1,500 and $2,000 per tooth. The cost depends on the size of the crown and any dental work required before the crown can be placed. Your dentist will provide a detailed cost breakdown at your consultation.
Payment plans are available through AfterPay, Humm, and Zip, including interest-free options.
Your dentist examines your mouth using X-rays and digital scans to assess the tooth and determine whether a gold crown is appropriate. The treatment plan, cost, and alternatives are discussed. You can ask questions at this stage.
The tooth is prepared for the crown. This may involve addressing decay or other issues and removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the crown. Gold crowns generally require less tooth reduction than some other crown types. Impressions or digital scans are taken to fabricate the crown. If the crown cannot be made on the same day, a temporary crown is placed.
When the gold crown is ready, it is fitted and checked for comfort, bite alignment, and position. Dental cement is used to bond the crown to the tooth. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions.
Care for your gold crown as you would your natural teeth — brush and floss daily. Avoid using your teeth to open bottles or lids. If you grind your teeth, discuss a night guard with your dentist. Attend regular dental check-ups so your dentist can monitor the crown and your oral health.
All dental treatments carry risks. Risks of dental crown treatment include tooth sensitivity after placement, which may be temporary or in some cases persist; the possibility of the crown loosening, cracking, or falling off over time; the potential need for root canal treatment if the nerve of the tooth is affected during preparation; decay developing under or around the crown if oral hygiene is not maintained; bite changes or discomfort after placement; and allergic reaction to the crown materials. Gold crowns, while durable, are not guaranteed to last indefinitely — individual outcomes depend on factors including oral hygiene, grinding habits, and the condition of the underlying tooth.
Your dentist will discuss all risks specific to your case before treatment.
For full information about risks and potential side effects, please visit our treatment risks page: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/
If you're considering a dental crown, a consultation is the appropriate starting point. Your dentist will assess your tooth, discuss whether a gold crown or another type is clinically appropriate, provide a treatment plan with costs, and discuss all risks involved.
For full information about treatment risks, please visit: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/
Gorgeous Smiles Melbourne CBD | 121 Exhibition St | Book online or call (03) 9042 0483
All dental treatment carries risks. The treatments described on this site may not be appropriate for your oral health. A full consultation with an AHPRA-registered dental professional is required before confirming suitability for any procedure. Individual results vary. For information about treatment risks, please visit our treatment risks page.