Dental alloys which are a combination of two or more elements are an important part of cosmetic tooth restorations. One of the elements is usually a metal while the others will have metallic properties. The substance that results from this combination has different properties from those of its original makeup. Therefore the physical characteristics each of one, also including the color, usually either yellow or white, will vary because of its makeup. There are also many different yellow gold (AU) mixtures commonly used in dentistry. Some of these may be softer than others. This is beneficial because it is then more malleable and then gives the dentist more control when he or she is trying to restore the tooth.  These softer pieces are used most often for smaller restorations such as inlays. A gold crown is usually made of a harder amalgamation because it needs to be greater in strength and resistance.

They can take the form of a cap, framing, or filling used to restore either a partially or an entirely decayed tooth. Some older types of dental amalgams, often known as silver-mercury fillings, have to be removed and replaced because of problems with this material that was once used to fill cavities. These metals can be harmful to some people if they are allergic or have too much in their mouths, while some of these fillings have degraded over time. These are replaced with new dental alloys that are safe and recommended for use today. Sometimes castings are made from such a combination of metals which are then used as a framework for removing dentures and fixing them, as well as making porcelain crowns.

There are three different classifications that are used to help identify dental alloys. These include high noble alloys, which are commonly referred to in the past as the precious metal types. These are the gold standard ones that must include over sixty percent of noble metals which are gold, platinum and or palladium. This group is usually the easiest for a dentist to work with because they are high in quality. Then there is another group that is classified simply as noble alloys. These consist of semi precious metals which have a makeup of over twenty five percent being noble metal content. Lastly is the non- noble or base metal group. These are also known as non precious metals. They contain less than twenty five percent of noble metals with a large part of their composition being nickel, chromium or beryllium. This less expensive group can also be used in certain restorations.

Dental alloys, metal as well as resin mixtures, are most often used for the restoration of teeth and have been used for many years. There are many mixtures that clients may choose from after the dentist evaluates the patient’s mouth, and medical history: metal mixtures, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, and resin crown restorations are all used under certain circumstances. Because some people are allergic to specific types of metals or resins, there are some that may not be appropriate choices for a particular client’s restoration. Understanding which dental alloys are best for their teeth, health, and lifestyle and why makes for satisfied clients and a thriving dentistry practice.