Dental Alloy
A metallic mixture of two or more elements, at least one of which is a metal, formulated for use in dental restorations such as crowns, inlays, partial denture frameworks, and orthodontic appliances.
Full Definition
Dental alloys are classified by their principal metallic component: high-noble (gold-based, containing ≥60% noble metal and ≥40% gold), noble (containing ≥25% noble metal), and predominantly base metal (e.g., nickel–chromium, cobalt–chromium). Each classification has distinct implications for biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, and compatibility with veneering ceramics. Editors must be careful to apply the correct ADA classification terminology; 'non-precious' is a lay term that should generally be replaced with 'base metal' or 'predominantly base metal' in clinical and scientific writing. The term 'alloy' should not be used interchangeably with 'metal' in contexts where compositional precision matters.
Usage
Usage note: Prefer 'base metal alloy' over 'non-precious' in formal and technical writing. Always specify the alloy system (e.g., Ni-Cr, Co-Cr, Au-Pd) at first mention.
In Context
- "The cobalt–chromium dental alloy was selected for the removable partial denture framework due to its high stiffness and corrosion resistance." — Prosthetics laboratory report
- "The editor replaced 'non-precious metal' with 'base metal alloy' to align with ADA classification terminology throughout the manuscript." — Journal copy-editing log