A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a damaged tooth. Its purpose is to restore the tooth’s strength, size, shape, and appearance. Crowns protect weakened teeth, cover large fillings, restore broken teeth, and hold dental bridges in place. They can also cover dental implants or teeth that have undergone a root canal procedure, helping to preserve the tooth’s structure.
Cost of Dental Crowns
The cost of a dental crown varies significantly, typically ranging from $500 to $3,000 per tooth without insurance. These costs generally include the crown, placement procedure, local anesthetic, and laboratory fees.
With dental insurance, out-of-pocket expenses average between $400 and $600, as many plans cover a portion of medically necessary crowns. Without insurance, porcelain crowns average around $1,399 ($915-$3,254). Metal crowns cost $900-$2,500, and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns average about $1,100 ($800-$2,400).
Additional procedures like X-rays, core buildups, or root canals can add to the total cost. A root canal, if needed before crown placement, can add $700 to $2,100. Temporary crowns, used while the permanent crown is fabricated, typically cost $200 to $700.
Tooth Reduction for Crown Placement
Preparing a tooth for a dental crown involves reshaping its natural structure to create space for the crown to fit without appearing bulky or interfering with the bite. The goal is to preserve as much healthy tooth material as possible while ensuring the crown has a stable foundation.
Dentists typically remove a few millimeters of enamel and dentin from all tooth surfaces. This reduction allows the crown to have adequate thickness for strength and durability, preventing fractures. The precise amount removed depends on the crown material chosen and the tooth’s original condition. This preparation ensures the crown bonds securely and functions properly.
Factors Influencing Crown Choices and Costs
Several factors influence both the selection and cost of a dental crown. The type of material is a primary factor, with options like porcelain, zirconia, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) having different price points and aesthetic qualities. All-ceramic or zirconia crowns, chosen for their natural appearance, are often more expensive, while metal crowns (especially base metal alloys) might be less costly. Material choice often depends on the tooth’s location and patient aesthetic preferences.
The complexity of the dental case also influences cost; extensive preparatory work like a core buildup or root canal increases expenses. The dental practice’s location can affect pricing, with urban areas often having higher costs. Additionally, the specific tooth being crowned influences price; front teeth may cost more due to aesthetic demands, while molars might use stronger, less aesthetic materials.
Dental insurance coverage is another significant factor, as many plans cover a percentage of medically necessary crowns, typically around 50%. However, insurance usually does not cover crowns sought purely for cosmetic reasons. Most insurance policies have annual maximum limits, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, and may include waiting periods before major dental benefits are available.
Crown Longevity and Care
The lifespan of a dental crown varies, but with proper care, crowns can last from 5 to 15 years. Factors influencing longevity include the crown material, oral hygiene habits, and forces exerted on the crown. Metal crowns, for example, are known for exceptional durability and can last over 20 years.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is important for extending a crown’s life. Avoiding habits that can damage the crown, such as chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candies, is also important. Regular dental check-ups allow the dentist to monitor the crown’s condition and address potential issues early.