The use of direct gold in restorative dentistry.

Direct gold is not the most utilized dental restorative technique; however, as Frederick Eichmiller notes, no other material allows the marginal gap to approach 0 micro (personal communication, 2005). Placing gold foils is best learned in an operating study club environment with an experienced mentor. The technique is rarely (if ever) taught in any dental school, although a few schools have electives that expose students to this classic method of operative dentistry.