How to Sell Dental Gold Near You: A Complete Guide for Top Value and Trusted Buyers

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with old dental crowns, bridges, or fillings, you're not alone. Dental gold and other precious dental metals can be surprisingly valuable, and selling them can be a smart way to make extra cash while recycling unused materials. This guide will walk you through everything you need—how dental gold is valued, the best ways to sell it, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a dental professional or simply clearing out your drawers, here’s what you need to know to get the best return.

What Exactly Is Dental Gold?

Gold is commonly used in dental crowns, bridges, onlays, and more. However, these restorations are rarely pure gold—most are crafted from alloys that blend gold (typically 10K–22K) with silver, platinum, or palladium. Even a small gold crown or bridge can contain substantial value thanks to these metals.

Types of dental gold items:

• Crowns and bridges

• Onlays and inlays

• Fillings, grills, and dental lab scrap

Why dental gold is valuable:

• High purity compared to jewelry gold

• Contains other precious metals

• Recyclable for new uses

Why Consider Selling Dental Gold?

Even small pieces of dental gold can fetch impressive payouts as gold prices rise. People sell dental gold for various reasons:

• Clearing out old dental work or inherited items

• Dental offices recycling accumulated scrap for extra income

• Environmental reasons—precious metals can be reused

Tip: Before selling, remove as much tooth material as possible, but don’t worry—most reputable buyers have equipment to handle this.

Where Can You Sell Dental Gold for the Best Price?

You have several choices, but not all buyers offer the same value. Here’s a closer look:

1. Precious Metal Refineries

These businesses specialize in processing dental gold. Because you’re selling directly to the end processor, you’ll usually get the most accurate assessment and the highest payout.

Pros: Transparent testing, no intermediary, often same-day payment

Cons: May require shipping or visiting their facility

2. Local Jewelers or Pawn Shops

Convenient if you want immediate cash, but they usually offer lower prices since they resell to refineries.

3. Online and Mail-In Buyers

Some national companies send you a prepaid kit, evaluate your items, and pay via check or bank transfer. Look for insured, trackable shipping and clear communication.

Advice: Always read reviews and check credentials before choosing a buyer. Direct refineries are typically the best choice for top value and peace of mind.

How to Sell Dental Gold: Step-by-Step

1. Collect your dental gold

Gather crowns, bridges, or dental scrap. Clean off excess debris if possible.

2. Estimate the weight

You can use a small scale at home, but remember that this is only an estimate—refineries will weigh and assay for an exact value.

3. Get multiple quotes

Don’t settle for the first offer. Contact a few buyers and compare.

4. Choose a reputable buyer

Prefer direct-to-refinery or well-reviewed online services for transparency.

5. Ship or visit

If mailing, always use insured, trackable shipping. If local, ask about walk-ins.

6. Receive your payment

Once your gold is tested, you’ll get a quote. Accept it, and you’ll be paid via your chosen method.

Tips to Maximize Your Payout

• Avoid “pay-per-piece” offers; they usually undervalue your items.

• Prefer buyers with in-house assay labs for accurate testing.

• Review recent customer feedback.

• Never accept cash offers without proper testing or paperwork.

Red Flags to Avoid When Selling Dental Gold

While most buyers are reputable, some may try to take advantage of sellers who are unfamiliar with the process. Here are a few warning signs to watch out for:

- Unclear pricing or hidden fees: Always ask for a detailed quote and make sure any deductions or service charges are explained up front.

- No in-house testing: If a buyer won’t assay your items in front of you or provide clear documentation, look elsewhere.

- Pressure tactics: Beware of buyers who pressure you to accept an offer immediately or discourage you from getting other quotes.

- Lack of credentials: Choose buyers with a physical business address, positive online reviews, and visible industry certifications.

- No paperwork or receipt: Always get written transaction documentation for your records.

Protect yourself only with established, transparent buyers who welcome your questions.

Current Gold Market Trends: How Timing Affects Your Payout

Gold prices fluctuate daily, impacting how much you’ll get for your dental gold. Selling when the market price is high can mean a better payout. Before sending your items, take a moment to check the current spot price of gold on reputable financial news websites or precious metal exchanges. Many refineries and buyers will base their offers on this daily price, minus a small processing fee.

If you’re not in a rush, consider monitoring gold prices for a few weeks to spot a favorable trend before selling. Timing your sale strategically can help you get the best possible return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dental gold the same as jewelry gold?

No—dental gold is usually a high-purity alloy mixed with other precious metals for strength.

Is it worth selling old crowns or bridges?

Yes, even a single crown can be worth $40–$100 or more, depending on size and purity.

What factors affect my payout?

The price is affected by purity (karat), weight, the current gold market price, and buyer fees.

Case Example: How a Refinery Like Bay Area Metals Works

Let’s say you decide to use a direct refinery such as Bay Area Metals:

- Walk in or use a mail-in kit

- Your items are professionally tested (assayed)

- You receive a precise, itemized quote

- Payment is usually the same or next day (cash, gold, or wire transfer)

By choosing a reputable refinery, you avoid intermediaries and maximize your return.

Final Thoughts: Turn Your Dental Gold into Cash with Confidence

Selling dental gold is easier and more profitable than many realize, as long as you work with a trustworthy buyer. Whether you’re an individual or a dental office, take the time to compare offers, research your buyer, and use a direct refinery for the best results.

Don’t let old crowns and bridges gather dust. Request a no-obligation quote from a reputable precious metals refinery and see how much your unused dental work is worth!