Introduction
If you’re searching for relevant information on types of dental crowns and their cost, this article will help. Dental crowns have long been a reliable solution to restore the look and function of a damaged tooth. These tooth shaped caps can help restore teeth and improve your smile.
When a dentist suggests you need a dental crown, you might wonder: What type is the best for me, and what will the cost be? This brief guide will help you understand the different types of dental crowns and their cost.
- Before deciding on a dental crown, it’s important to determine if you really need one. During your office visit, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and evaluate your particular case.
- They will guide you in choosing the right treatment, whether it’s a crown, inlay, onlay, or simply a filling.
- Some of the common causes for needing a dental crown include a weakened tooth from severe decay or a cavity, or if you need to cover an implant or replace a large filling.
- You may also need a crown if you have a damaged or cracked natural tooth, or if the tooth has had a root canal, especially for posterior teeth.
- Sometimes, crowns are used to align your bite or for aesthetics, such as to create a more beautiful smile by leveling the size, shape, and color of your teeth.
What Does Getting a Crown Involve?
When you need a custom made crown, be prepared to visit your dentist a couple of times. It’s usually not something that can be done in a single appointment, unless your dentist has a CEREC® or similar device, which can make a crown in one visit.
- The process of getting a dental crown typically begins with your dentist preparing your tooth, which may involve the removal of decay, a root canal, or both.
- Then, the dentist takes a mold to ensure the crown fits the exact shape of your tooth. During the waiting period, a temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth, and you need to take special care of this temporary cap.
- It’s important to avoid eating hard foods or sticky foods to prevent it from cracking. After about a week, the final crown will be ready.
What Type of Dental Crown Should I Choose? 5 Main Types
When you start thinking about a crown, one of the first things that come to mind is the types of dental crowns and their costs. There are different types of crowns available, and the cost can vary based on the materials, procedures, and your patient’s needs.
Some crowns may be more affordable, while others might offer better durability or aesthetics. The main types of crowns used in dentistry each have their own benefits, and choosing the right one depends on factors like your budget and the location of the tooth.
1. Gold Crowns
- Gold crowns are made from a combination of copper and other metals like nickel or chromium. Their main advantage is their strength and durability, making them an excellent choice for back restorations, especially for posterior restorations or second molars.
- Dentists may suggest a gold crown based on a patient’s needs, particularly if strength is a priority. These crowns are resistant to wear, lasting a long time if properly cared for, and they wear down slowly, just like natural enamel.
- They also require less of the natural tooth to be removed, which is another advantage. However, gold crowns are not very popular today due to their color and poor aesthetics, as they don’t resemble a natural tooth.
- Additionally, gold alloy crowns may cause side effects like allergic reactions or swelling in some people, which are the disadvantages of this crown type.
2. All Porcelain Crowns
Benefits include:
Porcelain crowns are one of the most popular types of crowns today. They are entirely made of porcelain material, offering a natural look that matches your surrounding teeth in shape, size, and color.
The advantages of porcelain crowns or ceramic crowns include being the best option for front teeth restorations since they blend seamlessly.
They are also biocompatible, meaning no metal is used, which makes them toxic free and a safe choice for many people.
On the other hand, the primary drawbacks of porcelain crowns are:
- Porcelain crowns are known for their natural look and feel, but they are not as strong as metal crowns.
- While porcelain crowns can last a long time if they are well taken care of, they might not be the best choice for patients with conditions like bruxism, as grinding can cause damage.
- In such cases, it’s often recommended to opt for gold or PFM crowns, which offer greater strength.
- Additionally, porcelain crowns can be costly compared to metal crowns, so it’s important to consider both your budget and needs when choosing the right type of crown.
3. Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM)
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns are widely used because they offer the best of both worlds: strength from the metal structure and aesthetics from the porcelain coat that covers the cap. These crowns are a good choice for those who want a durable yet natural looking crown. The metal structure ensures that they last longer, while the porcelain coat gives them the desired look of a natural tooth.
The key benefits of PFM crowns are:
- Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns are known for their aesthetics and durability, making them a popular choice for many people.
- They have been around for over 50 years, and we know they work well over time. Additionally, PFM crowns are less costly compared to all porcelain crowns, providing a balance of strength and a natural look while being more budget friendly.
On the other hand, the drawbacks of PFM crowns include:
- Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns are a popular choice due to their strength and aesthetic appeal. However, they may have some drawbacks.
- The metal in these crowns can sometimes cause a grey line at the gumline, which affects the aesthetic look, making them less seamless compared to porcelain crowns.
- Additionally, for those who clench teeth, this type of crown may wear down more quickly against the opposing teeth. Despite these issues, PFM crowns still offer a good balance of durability and appearance for many patients.
4. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a new material that combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain crowns. This makes them a strong and visually appealing option. Recently, high translucent zirconia and layered zirconia crowns have become a popular choice for many patients looking for a durable yet natural looking crown. These crowns offer the best of both worlds robust strength and a realistic appearance.
The key benefits of zirconia crowns are:
- Zirconia crowns are a great option if you’re looking for something that offers great aesthetics and is strong and long lasting.
- These crowns have less possibilities of chipping or breaking, making them very durable. The process for creating zirconia crowns can be less time consuming because they can be cut and shaped directly in the dental office, without needing to send them to a dental lab.
- Additionally, zirconia crowns are less likely to wear down due to their strength, and being biocompatible, they are metal free crowns that are not likely to cause allergic reactions.
The primary drawbacks of Zirconia Crowns are:
- Zirconia crowns are known for their strength, which makes them very durable. However, this strength can also cause the teeth they bite against to wear down easily.
- Additionally, solid zirconia can be difficult to adjust, which may cause issues during the fitting process. These crowns offer a great combination of durability and strength but can have some drawbacks that should be considered.
5. E Max: Lithium Disilicate Crowns
The newest type of crown in dentistry is the E Max crown, which is an all ceramic option made from lithium disilicate. This material is known for being light and thin, making it a great choice for patients who want a durable yet natural looking crown. Its combination of strength and aesthetics makes it a popular choice in modern dental care.
The primary benefits of E Max crowns are:
- E Max crowns are known for their great aesthetics and natural look in the mouth.
- Not only do they look good, but they are also durable and strong, making them a great choice for both front teeth and back teeth restorations.
- These crowns offer the perfect balance of beauty and strength, making them a popular option for many patients.
The primary drawbacks of E Max crowns include:
- E Max crowns, made from lithium disilicate, offer excellent aesthetics and strength, but they can be expensive.
- The cost may be higher due to the transfer cost from the manufacturer and the skill needed from dental professionals.
- While they are durable, failures can occur, especially when used for posterior teeth or in multiple units. It’s important to consult your dentist to see if they are the best choice for your specific needs.
What Is the Cost of Dental Crowns?
The cost of dental crowns can vary greatly depending on the material used and the preparation needed. For example, all porcelain crowns tend to be more costly than metal crowns. In some cases, a core build up might be required to protect the integrity of the tooth before the crown is placed.
Additional procedures such as a gingivectomy or minor gum surgery may be needed to improve aesthetics or the prognosis of the tooth. If a root canal is necessary, the overall cost of the procedure could double.
Typically, crowns range in cost from $500 to $2000 or more, depending on factors like your insurance, the insurance policy, and dental fees. If you’re looking for a low cost solution, an indirect resin crown is a more affordable option, typically costing between $400 and $600.
These restorations are made in the dentist’s lab instead of an outside lab, saving both time and money. While indirect resin crowns are budget friendly and require less time, they are more of a short term solution and may not offer the durability of other types of crowns.
So What Is the Average Cost of a Tooth Crown?
According to an estimate made by Costhelper, the price range of dental crowns per tooth today can vary significantly depending on factors like the material used and location. This range can give you a rough idea of what to expect when considering crowns for your teeth.
- The cost of a tooth crown varies depending on the type you choose.
- For gold crowns, you can expect to pay between $600 and $2,500.
- All porcelain crowns typically range from $800 to $3,000, while porcelain fused to metal crowns cost between $500 and $1,500.
- Zirconia crowns and E max crowns cost approximately the same as all porcelain crowns. Your final price will depend on factors like the materials, the procedure, and your dentist’s fees.
If you have insurance, about 50% of the crown cost can be covered, but this depends on the type of insurance you have and your particular case. If the crown is part of a cosmetic treatment, your insurance plan will most likely not cover the cost. However, if the treatment is preventative, such as to cover a root canal or repair a broken tooth, your insurance may cover at least a percentage of the cost.
What Is the Dental Crown Cost When Going to an In Network vs Out Of Network Dentist?
The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on whether you see an in network or out of network dentist. If you’re going to an in network provider, your restoration will typically be covered at 50%, meaning if the crown costs $1000, your out of pocket cost would be $500. However, with an out of network dentist, the cost might be higher, like $1300 for the same procedure, leading to a $650 out of pocket obligation.
Keep in mind that insurance companies have a fee schedule that in network dentists follow, which can lower your overall expenses. Healthcare decisions shouldn’t be based solely on price if your dentist is recommended, has good reviews, and offers peace of mind, it might be worth paying the extra cost.
Additionally, practices, especially larger ones, could add unnecessary services like gum surgery to make up the difference in fees. To avoid surprises, schedule an appointment with your preferred dentist, and ask their staff for a complimentary insurance check to see what your dental insurance will cover and what your portion will be.
In Summary, What Should I Consider When Getting a Dental Crown?
When getting a dental crown, it’s important to focus on both the cost and the quality of the treatment. A long lasting and restorative treatment is essential, as you will have the crown in your mouth for many years. It’s best to find a professional and skillful dentist, even if it means not choosing the least expensive dentist. Take time to weigh all the options and factors before deciding.
While cheap options may seem appealing, they could result in poor quality treatments, which will cost you more money, time, and cause discomfort in the future. Additionally, check whether your dentist works in network or out of network, as dental offices that are out of network will often help you file claims so you can get reimbursed. In some cases, going to an out of network provider may offer better quality care and an overall improved experience.