What type of restoration is commonly used for posterior teeth with significant decay?

The indication for restoration of posterior teeth with significant decay often leads to the use of a gold crown. Gold crowns are known for their durability, strength, and resistance to wear, making them particularly suitable for posterior teeth that experience heavy occlusal forces. These factors make gold crowns ideal for restoring teeth with large cavities or extensive decay, where a stronger material is required to withstand the demands of chewing and grinding.

Gold crowns can also provide a better fitting restoration compared to other materials, as they are less likely to chip or fracture due to their robust properties. This makes them a common choice when a tooth has a significant amount of structure lost to decay, as they help to maintain the tooth's integrity and functionality.

While other options like amalgam fillings and ceramic crowns are also employed in various situations, gold crowns are specifically preferred for cases involving substantial decay on posterior teeth due to their longevity and performance. Composite resins, though aesthetic and useful in smaller decay scenarios, may not offer the same level of strength needed for larger restorations on posterior teeth.