A bright, confident smile can say a lot about a person. So when teeth are damaged or decayed, not only can it affect your appearance, but it also has a significant impact on chewing function and comfort.
Enter dental crowns — a staple of restorative dentistry that brings back the cosmetics and function to compromised teeth. With numerous options available in terms of materials and types, and with every dental office having different fees, diving into the world of dental crowns can be overwhelming, especially when costs come into play.
This guide seeks to cover everything you’ll need to know about the costs of crowns, providing you with the insights needed to make an informed and budget-friendly decision.
Quick Answer: How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
Dental crowns are essentially custom-fitted caps designed to cover a damaged or decayed tooth. They aim to restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and its aesthetic appeal.
The cost for these crowns can vary widely, contingent upon a number of factors. While the material chosen for the crown (be it porcelain, metal, or zirconia) plays a significant role in determining the price, other factors such as the dentist's fees, geographic location, and any additional dental procedures needed can also influence the final bill.
Generally, for a standard adult dental crown, one can expect to shell out anywhere between $700 to $1,800 per crown. However, it's worth noting that dental insurance, if available and applicable, can considerably mitigate these out-of-pocket expenses.
$1,800 corresponds with the 95th percentile on crown costs — so if your dentist is charging more than $1,800, there’s nothing wrong with that, but you should be aware that in 95% of dental offices in the United States, a crown costs less than $1,800.
If this price range is too wide to be helpful, don’t worry — keep reading and we will take a deep dive into costs, to help you get the closest estimate possible for your particular situation.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, often referred to as "caps," are custom prosthetic covers designed to envelop the entirety of a tooth. Their primary purposes include:
Restoration: Brings a tooth back to its original size and shape.
Protection: Serves as a shield against further damage or decay.
Essentially, a crown mends a broken or weakened tooth.
Here's why they matter:
Aesthetics: Enhances the appearance of one's smile, especially if the damaged tooth is visible.
Health: By restoring a tooth, crowns prevent complications like pain, infection, and potential tooth loss.
Support other teeth: While removing a damaged tooth will always be cheaper than a crown, keep in mind that the other teeth will drift into improper positioning once a tooth is lost. The neighboring teeth will tip toward the gap where the tooth is missing, and the opposing tooth in the other arch will keep extending outward until it eventually touches the gums or another tooth.
Adult vs. Pediatric Crowns
Adult Dental Crowns:
These are the focus of our article — permanent crowns on permanent, adult teeth. These have a higher cost, due to:
Durability: Built to endure the daily rigors of eating and speaking. While 10 years is considered a “success,” many dental crowns last 20-30 years, or even longer.
Natural Appearance: Crafted to seamlessly blend with surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. Each crown is custom-made to match the color, size, shape, and positioning of your other teeth.
Pediatric Crowns:
These crowns cater to children's primary or "baby" teeth, which might be at risk of premature loss or damage. Key points include:
Short-Term Application: Designed for primary teeth, these crowns prioritize easy placement and are only needed until the tooth naturally falls out. These are pre-fabricated crowns that come in a variety of sizes, but aren’t custom-made to fit your exact tooth.
Space Maintenance: By protecting a damaged baby tooth, the crown ensures proper alignment for the upcoming permanent teeth. In many cases, early loss of a “baby tooth” will necessitate future orthodontic treatment.
Materials Used for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can be fabricated from various materials, each with its own advantages and limitations:
Porcelain:
Aesthetics: Closely mimics the look of natural teeth.
Durability: Moderate; may wear over time.
Cost: Generally higher than metal but offers superior aesthetics.
Ceramic:
Aesthetics: High-quality appearance.
Durability: Good; used often for front teeth.
Cost: Comparable to porcelain.
Metal (Gold, Silver, and others):
Aesthetics: Noticeable and metallic, not tooth-colored.
Durability: Exceptionally strong; ideal for molars. Some materials, like gold, are recommended for back teeth because they are slightly malleable and thus more comfortable for the jaw joint.
Cost: Varies by metal type, silver-colored crowns are generally more affordable than porcelain, while high noble metals (like real gold) are much more expensive.
PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal):
Aesthetics: Combines the look of porcelain with the strength of metal.
Durability: Strong due to the metal substructure. However, porcelain chipping is a concern over time.
Cost: Mid-range; balancing aesthetics and strength.
Zirconia:
Aesthetics: Very close to natural teeth.
Durability: One of the toughest crown materials.
Cost: Often on the higher end due to its benefits.
Cost of Dental Crowns: A Deep Dive
[Before diving into the materials, a brief note to our readers: This guide predominantly focuses on the United States dental market. For readers in other countries, I apologize — differences in dental insurance, national health care systems, and a thousand different variables mean that I’m not able to give you an accurate, up-to-date price estimate for crowns in your area.]
Now, for our U.S.-based readers, let’s continue.
Navigating dental crown costs involves understanding several key components:
Insurance Influence***:
Dental insurance is the “elephant in the room” when discussing dental costs. As a simplified example, a crown might cost $1,500 at cash-pay prices with no insurance, but only “cost” $1,000 if your dentist is an in-network provider with your dental insurance. At the same time, your insurance may cover a portion of this $1,000, so your out-of-pocket expense may be anywhere between $0 and $1,000, depending on the particulars of your plan.
Dental insurance can cover a portion of the cost, reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Even if your insurance doesn’t “cover” a portion (such as when you have exceeded your annual maximum), your treatment may still be less expensive because there is an insurance “discount” with in-network dentists.
Coverage often varies depending on the chosen material and the necessity of the procedure. For example, placing crowns on your front six teeth for cosmetic purposes likely won’t be covered by insurance. But please do your own research!
Material-Based Costs:
As previously discussed, costs fluctuate based on material choice.
Cost differences between materials, generally, are a less substantial factor than other differences (like insurance coverage, geographic differences, and whether or not additional procedures like root canals are needed). However, certain materials like gold will increase the cost significantly.
Other Cost Factors:
Additional Procedures***: If a tooth needs a core buildup, a root canal, or a post before the crown, this will increase the overall cost significantly. This will show up on your bill as an additional procedure, so it won’t increase the cost of the crown, itself.
Lab Fees: Unusual situations sometimes involve added lab costs. Upcharges are necessary when materials are expensive (like gold) and at some dental offices that offer same-day crowns for an additional fee.
Dentist's Experience: Renowned specialists might charge more. In-network providers are contractually obligated to charge a set fee, but cash-pay and boutique offices, as well as out-of-network specialists, can set their fees however they see fit.
Geographical Location: Some regions may see prices 25% or more above the national average, while others can be 25% or more below. If a given procedure costs $1,000 on average, it may cost ~$800 in rural Arkansas or Idaho, but $1,250+ in New York City.
Cost of Maintenance:
Over time, crowns might need repairs or replacements.
Proper oral hygiene can minimize these long-term costs. Crowns generally fail due to periodontal disease of the tooth or decay around the margins, rather than a failure of the crown itself.
Most crowns will function for 10+ years, but it is common for a crown to last 20-30 years — or even a full lifetime! Most scientific studies confirm that 95%+ of crowns survive 5+ years, with annual failure rates of 1% to 3.5%.
Additional Costs Beyond the Crown
Navigating the costs associated with dental crowns isn't just about the crown itself. There are often other associated expenses to consider. Here's a breakdown to give you a clearer picture:
Dental Exam:
Purpose: This is an initial assessment to determine the health of the tooth and whether it's suitable for a crown.
Cost: Up to $150, with the price varying based on the dental office and the involvement of insurance.
While many people, understandably, want to avoid this cost, it is truly non-negotiable. A dentist would risk his/her dental license by crowning a tooth without first conducting a proper examination.
Radiographs (X-rays):
Bitewing Radiograph: This x-ray provides a visual of both the upper and lower back teeth. It is useful for accurately determining the extent of damage to the tooth.
Periapical Radiograph: This shows the entire tooth, from the crown to the bone that supports the tooth. It is useful for determining whether or not the nerve of the tooth is affected, in which case a root canal will likely be necessary.
Cost: Combined, these can cost up to $70. As with the exam, the final price can be influenced by the specific dental office and insurance coverage.
Additional Procedures (if needed):
Core Buildup: Sometimes, if a large part of the tooth is missing, a core buildup is needed to support the crown. This will likely add $100-$300 to the overall bill, but insurance may reduce this cost.
Root Canal: If the tooth pulp (nerve) is infected, a root canal may be required to save the tooth before it's crowned. This will likely add $400-$1,000 to the overall bill, but insurance may reduce this cost.
Post: In some cases, especially after a root canal, a post may be necessary to help anchor the crown. This will likely add $200-$400 to the overall bill, but insurance may reduce this cost.
Sedation: Many patients, understandably, want to minimize anxiety in the dental chair. However, you should be prepared for sedation dentistry to add a considerable cost to the overall expense. While nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) may be <$150, conscious sedation or IV sedation often come with a bill in excess of $1,000.
Temporary Crown***: In almost all cases, the cost of a temporary crown should be included in the cost of a permanent crown. If your dentist is charging you an additional bill for a temporary crown, be sure to ask for an explanation.
Cost: These procedures can significantly add to the total expense, with prices varying widely based on complexity, materials used, and the dentist's expertise.
It's vital to consult with your dentist to get a detailed cost breakdown tailored to your situation. These costs can vary not just by the region but also by individual dental practices and the specific circumstances of the patient.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Protecting your dental crown ensures its longevity and maintains your oral health:
Consistent Oral Hygiene:
Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around the crown twice daily.
Flossing: Gently floss around the crown to avoid dislodging it.
Dietary Precautions:
Hard and sticky foods may damage or pull off the crown, but generally you can use a crowned tooth the same as a natural tooth. Habits like chewing ice are frowned upon, both for the sake of your natural teeth as well as your crowns.
Regular Dental Visits: Check-ups are essential for monitoring the health of your crowned tooth and the surrounding gum. Problems like gum disease and decay around the crown margin can be resolved if detected early.
Nighttime Care: If you have a history of grinding your teeth, a nightguard may be advised.
Potential Issues: Be aware of sensitivity or discomfort, and consult your dentist if it persists.
Crown Alternatives
While dental crowns are an optimal solution for many dental issues, it's worth noting there are other restorative options that may be available:
Veneers
What They Are: Thin layers of porcelain or resin bonded to the front of the tooth.
Best For: Cosmetic enhancements, chipped front teeth, and minor tooth imperfections.
Considerations: Less invasive than crowns but may not last as long.
Fillings
What They Are: Material used to fill cavities or minor damage in teeth.
Best For: Small chips & cavities, small/medium amounts of tooth decay.
Considerations: Not as durable as crowns; might not be suitable for large cavities.
Dental crowns often serve as a “best of both worlds,” providing both structural support and aesthetic appeal. However, there are times when a large filling may be more cost-effective than a crown.
Note that this is not always an option — if more than 50% of the tooth is damaged, a crown is simply the best and only choice. But alternative treatments are certainly worth discussing with your dentist.
Further Points to Consider
When deciding on a dental crown, consider the following:
Communication: Always maintain open dialogue with your dentist. Their expertise can guide your choices.
Individual Needs: Assess the extent of tooth damage, pain, and sensitivity.
Aesthetic Preferences: Consider the desired look. Do you prefer natural-looking porcelain or durable gold?
Budget Constraints: Understand the costs associated with each type of crown. Consult your dental insurance to see what's covered.
Risks & Benefits: Every dental procedure carries potential risks. Discuss these with your dentist. Balance the pros and cons before making a decision.
By carefully considering these factors, you'll make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of dental crowns can initially seem overwhelming given the abundance of choices and considerations. But by equipping oneself with the right knowledge, such as understanding the materials, costs, and care procedures, one can confidently make decisions that align with personal needs and financial considerations.
Remember, investing in your oral health doesn't just address current issues—it's a proactive step towards a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth. Dental crowns, despite their cost, offer a solution that merges functionality and aesthetics, ensuring you don't have to compromise on either.
FAQs
How much should a temporary crown cost?
This is a commonly misunderstood point: in almost all cases, the temporary crown should be included in the cost of a permanent dental crown. So for our discussion above, there should be no additional fee for a temporary crown. In rare cases, such as travelers that need a temporary crown just long enough to get home to their normal dentist, a temporary crown can be billed separately — but this is the exception.
How much does a dental crown cost?
The cost of a dental crown varies based on the material, the dentist's experience, lab fees, geographical location, and additional procedures that might be needed. On average, in the United States, the cost ranges from $800 to $1,500 or more per crown. However, some locations can see prices 25% higher or lower than this national average.
Why is a dental crown so expensive?
Simply put, dental office overhead, materials, and costs are substantial. A laboratory generally charges $100-250 to make the crown, and the dental office usually has costs of $300-500+ per hour simply to “keep the lights on” (labor costs, disposable materials cost, equipment costs, etc.). Several factors contribute to the overall cost of a crown:
Materials: Quality materials like porcelain or zirconia come at a premium.
Labor: Creating a crown requires skilled lab technicians and can be labor-intensive.
Dentist Expertise: The skills, knowledge, and experience of the dentist play a significant role.
Additional Procedures: Sometimes, additional treatments like root canals or fillings may be needed before placing a crown.
Overhead Costs: Equipment, staff salaries, and other operational costs of dental practices contribute.
Are dental crowns worth the money?
For many, the answer is a resounding 'yes.' Dental crowns restore functionality, allowing individuals to eat, speak, and smile without discomfort or self-consciousness. Moreover, a quality crown can last for many years, making it a long-term investment in one's oral health. When evaluating the cost, consider both immediate benefits and long-term value in terms of health, functionality, and aesthetics. While an extraction will be cheaper, it also comes with loss of function, damage to other teeth, and the eventual need for an implant or partial denture.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.