A dental crown is a cap that is shaped like a tooth. It is used to cover your decayed or damaged tooth. It helps to restore its appearance, strength and overall function. You can think of it like a protective helmet over your weakened tooth, which basically prevents it from further damage. In many cases, a dental crown is necessary after an endodontic treatment, such as when a worn-out tooth is suffering from large cavities.
Although dental crowns are extremely common, their cost remains a major concern for most people. The answer is not that simple, as their cost depends on various factors. These factors include the location of the dental practice, the type of material and the reputation of the dentist considered for the procedure. Regardless of these factors, there are many ways to effectively make them affordable, ensuring durability. In this blog, you will know more about the factors affecting dental crown cost and ways to manage them effectively.
Why it is necessary
A dental crown is a personalized tooth cap made to cover the noticeable part of your tooth. It helps to restore its appearance and overall function. It also helps to protect it from further damage. Generally, it is recommended in cases of significant cavities, a cracked tooth, or severe decay. A dental crown can also be used for cosmetic purposes such as improving the size, shape or overall appearance of a tooth. Complete coverage of the tooth ensures proper functionality. It allows you to normally bite and chew without the risk of any breakage.
A dental crown is custom-made to properly fit your tooth, which maintains comfort and longevity. Maintaining proper oral care and hygiene, especially for modern dental crowns can last them up to several years. Although a dental crown may sound quite expensive, they are still essential for preserving your natural teeth. It also saves you from intensive and expensive dental procedures later in life.
Their cost
The expense of a dental crown can widely depend on the location of the dental practice and the type of materials used. Typically, a dental crown ranges between $850 – $2,500 per tooth. For instance, porcelain crowns, which are quite similar to natural teeth usually range between $1,000 – $2,500. On the other hand, metal crowns are slightly less expensive. In contrast, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns usually fall in the middle range, offering both aesthetics and a stronger build.
They usually range between $800 – $1,600. It is important to know that prices also depend on the clinic’s ratings, type of equipment used and intensity of the procedure. The overall cost can also increase due to some additional treatment such as tooth buildup or endodontic treatment. It is strongly recommended to consult dentists near you to ensure you get a fair price.
Variations in material
There are many types of dental crowns, with each type having different prices and benefits. Porcelain crowns are the closest to natural teeth in terms of appearance. They are perfect to be considered for your front teeth. They usually range between $1,000 – $2,500. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns typically fall in the middle range. They maintain a balance between natural aesthetics and proper durability. They usually range between $800 – $1,600. In contrast, metal crowns are durable. They are typically made from gold alloys or alloys in some cases. They usually range between $800 – $2,500+ depending on the type of material used (gold, base metal, etc.).
They are more noticeable in your mouth compared to other types. Some modern options like zirconia crowns offer both good aesthetics and better durability for any tooth location. They usually range between $1,000 – $2,500. Generally, dentists recommend a dental crown based on tooth position and your preference. Although cost is important, it is more important to choose the right crown on the basis of longevity, durability and overall longevity.
Other factors that you should consider
There are many factors that are important to consider before getting a dental crown. Although the type of material is a major reason for affecting a dental crown’s cost. Still, other factors like the reputation and experience of the dentist and the quality of the clinic can also affect a dental crown’s cost. Location is also important as services in big cities or private areas can be expensive compared to smaller towns. It is also important to look out for any additional treatments such as tooth preparation, endodontic treatment, temporary crowns or X-rays that can add up to your overall cost.
Modern technologies, such as same-day dental crown replacement or digital scanning, can also contribute to an increase in your total cost. It is strongly recommended to consult your dentist and ask about all the potential costs and treatment options. It helps to evaluate the total budget before starting the procedure to avoid any unexpected costs.
In comparison to dental implants
In the context of dental care, both dental crowns and dental implants serve different purposes. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that basically helps to preserve your decayed or damaged tooth. It restores its appearance and overall functionality. On the other hand, a dental implant is used to replace a tooth completely. It consists of titanium, which is surgically placed into your jawbone in place of a missing tooth.
Unlike crowns that are used to cover a damaged tooth to restore functionality, an implant is necessary in case of a lost tooth or extraction. Implants are helpful in preserving your jawbone health and act as a permanent solution. In contrast, crowns are focused on restoring your natural tooth without any removal. Both procedures are meant to be used in entirely different situations based on the requirements of your oral health.
Conclusion
It is not possible to determine the exact price of a dental crown on your own. It depends on the location of the dental practice, the type of materials used and the dentist’s experience. It is crucial to understand that even though crowns seem expensive, they are necessary to preserve your natural teeth. Restoring your decayed or damaged tooth helps to prevent certain dental problems later in life. It is strongly recommended to sit with your dentist to understand the procedure thoroughly beforehand to avoid any surprises. It also helps you to plan your budget and makes the procedure more manageable.
It also allows you to choose the right option for yourself that offers both aesthetics and durability. This way, it provides you with long-term functionality and oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does insurance help to reduce the cost?
In many cases, dental crowns are often partially covered by your insurance plan. The coverage can range between 40% – 60% if it is deemed medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. Still, it is important to contact your provider to evaluate the plan according to your needs. This way, you will receive proper clarity on what you have to pay for.
What is the average cost of dental implants?
The cost depends on the type of material, location of the dental practice and overall experience of the dentist. Typically, the average cost ranges between $3,000 – $6,000. Additional treatments such as extractions or bone grafts can contribute to the total cost as well. It is advised to consult your dentist to get an estimate of your total cost.
What is the longevity of a dental crown?
The overall longevity depends on the oral care, materials used and lifestyle habits. Typically, a dental crown can last up to 6 – 16 years. In case of materials such as porcelain, metal or zirconia crowns, they can last up to 20+ years if maintained with proper oral care. It is also important to attend regular check-ups and regularly brush to increase longevity.
Can a dental crown be whitened?
Unlike natural teeth, dental crowns cannot be whitened. Whitening treatments require natural enamel to work properly. As a result, your dental crown will not match the nearby teeth, resulting in an unnatural appearance. The dentist may have to replace your crown with another to match your current tooth’s color.
Is the procedure harmful?
Generally, it is not painful to get a dental crown. Commonly, the local anesthesia is used to numb your surrounding teeth, which also makes the procedure painless. Although you may feel mild discomfort during tooth preparation, it is not as bad as a sharp pain. Post-procedure, it is normal to feel sensitivity in your teeth for a few days.
