If you’ve been told you need a crown, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is how much it’s going to cost. Dental crowns aren’t a one-size-fits-all procedure, and pricing can vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors. These include the type of crown you choose, the materials used, the complexity of your case, and the experience of your dentist and lab technician. If you need a crown and want to learn more about the costs, read on to learn more.
What is the typical cost range of a dental crown?
On average, a dental crown can cost between $1,600 and $3,500. This price typically includes both the preparation and placement of the crown, as well as the crown itself. Crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more, especially with good oral hygiene and regular dental care.
What factors influence the cost of a dental crown?
There are several factors that influence the cost of a dental crown. They include:
- Location: Your location also plays a role. Crowns installed in large metropolitan areas tend to cost more than crowns installed in smaller rural areas.
- Expertise: Crowns installed by highly specialized providers tend to cost more than crowns installed at a general dental practice.
- Insurance and Financing: If you have dental insurance, it may cover part of the cost of a crown, particularly if it’s considered medically necessary. However, cosmetic crowns may not be covered. If you don’t have insurance, or your plan doesn’t cover the full cost, you can look into third-party financing options. Many patients use services like CareCredit or Capital One Healthcare Finance to break the cost into manageable monthly payments.
- Materials Used: The material used for your crown has a major impact on the price. Your dentist will recommend a material based on your dental needs, the location of the tooth, and how much aesthetic value you want from the final result.
What types of materials are used for dental crowns?
There are several materials used in dental crowns. They can significantly impact the cost. They are:
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns are a popular choice for their strength and durability. They combine the toughness of a metal base with a porcelain exterior that resembles natural enamel. One thing to be aware of is that the metal edge can sometimes become visible at the gumline over time, particularly if your gums recede. Some PFM crowns use a porcelain collar to minimize this effect, but the overall appearance might not be as lifelike as other options.
- All-Ceramic Crowns: All-ceramic crowns, including those made from zirconia or aluminous porcelain, are often chosen for their superior aesthetic quality. They don’t contain any metal, which allows them to reflect light more naturally and blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. All-ceramic crowns are typically more expensive than PFM crowns and require precise craftsmanship from the dental lab.
- Gold Crowns: Gold crowns are usually reserved for back teeth due to their metallic appearance, but they have advantages. Gold is extremely durable and gentle on opposing teeth. It also requires less removal of the natural tooth during preparation. While not a common cosmetic choice, gold crowns are ideal for patients with heavy bite forces or grinding habits.
What’s the bottom line?
In the end, the right crown for you depends on your goals, dental health, and budget. Your dentist can help you weigh the options, so you get the best combination of function and appearance at a cost that fits your budget.