How Much Does Dental Crown Cost?
If you have a damaged tooth, getting a dental crown is a great way to restore its appearance and function. But like most major dental work, crowns come at a cost. On average, a dental crown cost can range from $800 up to $3,000 per tooth depending on the material used and the dentist performing the procedure. Understanding the factors that influence dental crown cost helps you budget for this critical dental treatment when recommended by your dentist.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” or cover that fully surrounds a tooth to restore its size, shape, strength, and appearance. It is typically bonded over a tooth that has decayed, chipped, cracked, or had major structural damage or large fillings. A crown tooth cost receives in return the ability to comfortably chew and smile confidently again thanks to a strong, natural-looking restored tooth.
Cost Components of a Dental Crown
Several key factors account for the cost of dental crown per tooth:
- Crown material: More aesthetic or durable materials cost more
- Dentist fees: Specialist rates are higher than general dentists
- Tooth complexity: Multi-rooted, less accessible teeth cost more
- Insurance coverage: Out-of-pocket expense depends on your plan
- Number of crowns: Cost per crown decreases with multiple crowns
Understanding these cost factors allows you to plan and budget for your custom fabricated, tooth-colored ceramic, porcelain, or gold crown tooth cap.
Types of Dental Crowns by Cost
The typical cost of common crown materials includes:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal = $800 – $1,400
- All-porcelain/ceramic = $800 – $3,000
- All-metal = $800 – $2,500
- Zirconia = $800 to $2,400
Porcelain or ceramic crowns provide the most natural, tooth-colored look but cost more due to their delicacy. Gold or metal alloy crowns are generally cheaper, but their metallic hue looks less realistic. Discuss options with your dentist to find the best value based on your needs and budget.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are usually considered a major restorative procedure rather than basic care. Most dental insurance plans categorized crowns as “Tier 2” or “Tier 3” benefits meaning coinsurance applies, often with a 50% discount off the dental crown cost.
For example, if your dentist charges $1,000 for your custom crown, and you have 50% coinsurance, your out-of-pocket crown tooth cost would be $500 plus any deductible. This makes dental crowns much more affordable for policyholders despite being expensive. Review your plan details to understand your crown coverage and estimate copays or limits before proceeding.
Can Cost Cause Delayed Dental Crown Treatment?
Neglecting your dental health by delaying crowns due to cost concerns can lead to great expense and medical consequences later on. An untreated cracked or decayed tooth will likely worsen over time, resulting in more complex treatments like root canals, gum surgery, or tooth extractions/replacements. While high, the crown tooth cost pales in comparison to those major interventions.
Conclusion
Partner with your dentists and insurance provider to explore payment plans if upfront out-of-pocket costs are prohibitive. But do not avoid or put off necessary crown treatment altogether. Protecting and proactively restoring damaged teeth should be a financial priority for your health.
Protect your oral health and your budget by understanding typical costs and insurance coverage for essential dental crowns. Partner closely with Forest Heights Family Dental to maximize affordability while not delaying necessary tooth restoration care. Maintain any crowns properly and visit your dentist regularly to ensure they last many years.
FAQs
- How much does a dental crown cost?
The cost for a dental crown tooth procedure typically ranges between $800 to $3,000 per crown-capped tooth. The dental crown cost varies based on the type of material used, dentists’ rates, tooth complexity, and insurance coverage.
- Do dental crowns hurt?
Having proper local anesthetic means you should not feel pain during the crown procedure. Let your dentist know if any sensitivity arises so they can address any discomfort.
- How long does a dental crown last?
With good oral care and regular dental checkups, quality dental crowns generally last 5-15 years, with the potential to last 30 years or longer before needing replacement. Harsh biting and chewing shorten durability.
- Does insurance cover dental crowns?
Most dental insurance plans cover crowns as a major restorative procedure, often with 50% coinsurance applied once any deductible is met. Out-of-pocket costs will still apply but will be significantly discounted.
- Are cheaper dental crowns worse?
The material used for discount dental crowns may not last as long or feel/function as comfortable in your mouth over time. Prioritize quality from reputable dentists for longer-lasting crowns.
