Abstract
The current uses of gold in dental applications are reviewed and the major gold-based dental alloys are described with reference to current International Standards. Newer techniques, such as electroforming, are highlighted with suggestions for potential future areas for research and development. The future role of gold in restorative and conservative dentistry is also discussed in the light of increasing competition from alternative materials. It is clear that if longevity, functionality, aesthetics and biocompatibility, together with ease of manufacture are considered as the most important selection criteria, the optimum material for dental restorations is still an approved gold alloy.
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About the Authors Dr Helmut Knosp has been involved in R&D of precious metals dental alloys, materials and equipment since 1968, initially with Degussa GmbH. He joined C. Hafner GmbH in 1981 in Pforzheim as a technical director. He obtained his doctorate at the University of Stuttgart and was for several years with the Max-Planck-Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart, and Carl Zeiss, Oberkochen. Now in retirement he
Dr Richard Holliday is currently Industrial Applications Manager at World Gold Council, London. His responsibilities include management of the Council's GROW (Gold Research Opportunities Worldwide) Programme, focused on research and feasibility studies with the potential to lead to new applications for gold. He is Chairman of the Materials Technical Committee for the GOLD2003 Conference to be held in Vancouver later this year.
Dr Christopher Corti is Director, International Technology, World Gold Council and has over 23 years, experience in precious metals technology development and industrial application. A former technical Director at Johnson Matthey Colour and Print Division, he has been at World Gold Council since 1994 and is Editor of the journalGold Bulletin.
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Knosp, H., Holliday, R.J. & Corti, C.W. Gold in dentistry: Alloys, uses and performance. Gold Bull 36, 93–102 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03215496
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03215496