How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?

A crown can restore both the look and function of a decayed or damaged tooth, but how much will it impact your wallet? A lot of factors will determine the cost of your crown, including where you live, the skill and experience of your dentist, the type of crown you choose, and whether you need additional dental work.

What is a Dental Crown?

It is important to evaluate other options before choosing a crown. If a more conservative option such as a filling, inlay, or onlay would be an effective treatment, you may want to consider it. The cost will generally be less, and more of your original tooth’s structure will be preserved.

However, if a large portion of your tooth must be removed in order to treat decay, a large cavity, a root canal, or severe damage, your dentist may suggest a crown. A crown is a “cap” that is shaped like your tooth, which is affixed to the remaining portion of your natural tooth or a dental implant.

Why are Crowns so Expensive?

Ideally, we want a crown to look and function like a natural tooth, especially if it is visible. It should also be made of a durable material that will last through years of brushing, biting, and chewing. The material a crown is made out of will affect how it looks, how long it lasts, and, of course, how much it costs. In addition, it takes a great deal of skill to properly place a crown. Choosing a dentist you trust is key.

Is a Dental Crown Covered by Insurance?

If your crown is part of medically necessary treatment, there is a better chance a portion of it will be covered. If it is solely cosmetic, most insurance companies will not provide coverage. Even if insurance does not cover your crown (or only covers part of the cost), insurance may contribute to the care and preparation involved in getting a crown.

In addition to discussing the cost with your dentist, contact your insurance provider to get details of your coverage. Your dentist should be able to confirm your coverage with your carrier as well.

Types of Crowns and Average Cost

Another factor in the cost of a crown will be the material you choose. Each material has pros and cons, and the price is certainly a consideration.

Gold ($600-$2,500+)

Gold crowns can be made with precious metals (and the hefty price tag that goes along with them), but most are made of a less expensive alloy. Gold crowns are not as popular as they once were as they do not blend with your natural teeth. Gold crowns are better for less visible teeth.

Pros

• Less expensive (when you choose alloy)
• Very durable
• Sometimes require less natural tooth removal

Cons

• Conspicuous
• Some patients can have an allergic reaction

All-Porcelain ($800-$3,000+)

This material is very common for dental restorations, including crowns, because porcelain mimics the color, texture, and translucency of natural teeth. This is a good option for visible front teeth.

Pros

• Natural-looking
• Will not cause an allergic reaction

Cons

• Not as strong as metal options
• Not a good option if you clench or grind your teeth

Porcelain Fused to Metal ($500-$1,500)

This option is a combination of the previous two. The underlying metal provides a highly durable structure which also lowers cost. The visible portion of the crown is porcelain which allows for the natural aesthetic of a porcelain crown.

Pros

• They look natural
• Stronger and less expensive than 100% porcelain crowns

Cons

• The porcelain portion less is durable than all-metal crowns
• Not a good option if you clench or grind your teeth
• Metal base can show at the gum line

Zerconia ($800-$3,000+)

A more modern material made from Zirconium is an option for a strong and natural-looking crown. Like porcelain, this option is translucent and mimics the look of natural teeth.

Pros

• Extremely strong
• Natural color and translucency
• Will not cause allergic reactions

Cons

• A more expensive option
• So strong they may wear away other natural teeth

CEREC ($500-$2,000+)

CEREC is a cutting edge technology that allows our office to fabricate your crown on-site. CEREC crowns are 3-D printed with ceramic or porcelain. They are convenient, durable, and natural-looking, but can be more expensive than traditional crowns.

Pros

• Only require one appointment
• Natural-looking
• Will not cause allergic reactions

Cons

• More costly
• Not as strong as metal crowns

How Much Will My Crown Cost?

The only way to know for sure how much your crown will cost is to talk with your dentist and insurance. Be sure to talk to your dentist about your concerns and your budget. Schedule a consultation to receive a customized treatment plan and estimated costs for your personal needs.