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Dental crowns have become an essential component of modern dentistry, offering a reliable solution for restoring damaged teeth and enhancing smiles. However, many people may be taken aback by the high cost associated with this dental procedure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the factors that contribute to the expense of dental crowns, helping you understand why they command such a premium price tag. And we’ll share some insight into how you can reduce the cost of dental crowns.
Overview of Dental Crowns
Before we dive into the cost factors, let’s establish a foundational understanding of what dental crowns are and their purpose in dentistry.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are versatile dental restorations that serve multiple purposes:
- Protecting weak teeth from breaking or holding together parts of a cracked tooth
- Restoring severely worn down or broken teeth
- Covering and supporting teeth with large fillings
- Holding dental bridges in place
- Covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth
- Covering dental implants
- Making cosmetic modifications
Types of dental crowns
Dental crowns come in various materials, each with its own set of advantages and price points.
Porcelain Crowns: These offer the most natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth.
Metal Crowns: Including gold and silver-colored alloys, these are known for their durability and longevity.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain.
Zirconia Crowns:A modern option that blends strength with a natural appearance.
Factors Driving Up the Cost of Crowns
The high cost of dental crowns can be attributed to several key factors that ensure quality, durability, and effectiveness of the restoration.
Material quality
The materials used in dental crowns significantly impact their cost. High-quality materials such as porcelain, zirconia, or metal alloys are chosen for their durability, natural aesthetics, and biocompatibility. These materials are more expensive than cheaper alternatives but offer superior results in terms of longevity and appearance.
For instance, porcelain crowns, which range from $1,000 to $3,500 per crown, are highly sought after for their natural look. Zirconia crowns, priced between $1,500 to $3,000 per crown, offer a balance of strength and aesthetics. The investment in these premium materials directly translates to the overall cost of the crown.
Labor-intensive laboratory work
The creation of a dental crown is a meticulous process that requires significant labor and expertise. Each crown is custom-made to fit the patient’s unique dental structure, which involves several steps:
- Taking precise impressions of the patient’s teeth
- Creating a model of the patient’s bite
- Designing the crown to match the color, shape, and size of the surrounding teeth
- Fabricating the crown using specialized equipment
- Refining and polishing the crown for a perfect fit
This labor-intensive process, often carried out by skilled dental technicians in specialized laboratories, contributes substantially to the overall cost of the crown. (This is true for many other costly dental treatments too.)
Advanced techniques and equipment
The dental industry has seen significant technological advancements in recent years, particularly in the realm of crown fabrication. Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies have revolutionized the way dental crowns are produced.
These advanced systems allow for:
- Precise digital impressions of teeth
- Virtual design of crowns using sophisticated software
- Automated milling of crowns from ceramic blocks
While these technologies improve accuracy and reduce turnaround times, they also require substantial investment from dental practices. The cost of acquiring and maintaining this advanced equipment is often reflected in the price of the final product.
Time and skill
The expertise required to properly design, fit, and place a dental crown is a significant factor in its cost. Dentists undergo years of specialized training to develop the skills necessary for this intricate procedure. The process of preparing a tooth for a crown, ensuring proper fit, and making any necessary adjustments demands precision and experience.
Moreover, the time invested in each crown procedure is considerable. A typical crown placement may involve:
- Initial consultation and examination
- Tooth preparation, which may include removing decay, reshaping the tooth, or building up the core
- Taking impressions
- Placing a temporary crown
- Final fitting and cementing of the permanent crown
Each of these steps requires the dentist’s time and expertise, contributing to the overall cost of the procedure.
Comparing Different Crown Options
When considering a dental crown, it’s important to understand the cost variations among different types and how they relate to the value provided.
Cost variations
The price of dental crowns can vary significantly based on the material used and the complexity of the case. Here’s a general overview of the cost ranges for different types of crowns:
| Crown Material | Average Cost Range |
| Porcelain | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $800 – $2,500 |
| Metal (Gold or Silver Alloys) | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Zirconia | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Resin | $400 – $800 |
It’s important to note that these prices can vary based on factors such as geographic location, the specific dental practice, and any additional procedures that may be required.
Value for investment
While the upfront cost of dental crowns may seem high, it’s essential to consider the long-term value they provide. Dental crowns offer several benefits that justify their expense:
Longevity: With proper care, dental crowns can last 10-20 years or more, making them a durable solution for dental problems.
Improved oral health: Crowns protect weakened teeth from further damage, potentially preventing the need for more extensive and costly dental work in the future.
Enhanced aesthetics: Especially for front teeth, crowns can significantly improve the appearance of your smile, which can have positive impacts on self-confidence and social interactions.
Restored functionality: Crowns allow you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably, improving overall quality of life.
Prevention of further dental issues: By protecting damaged teeth, crowns can prevent the spread of decay or infection to other teeth or gum tissue.
When viewed in this light, the cost of a dental crown can be seen as an investment in long-term oral health and well-being.
The Role of Insurance and Payment Options
Dental insurance and cost-saving options such as dental savings plans can help make dental crowns more affordable and accessible.
Dental insurance
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental crowns, typically around 50% of the procedure. However, coverage can vary widely between plans, and there may be annual limits on coverage. Check with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits.
Dental savings plans
Dental savings plans are an effective way to reduce the cost of dental crowns. These plans provide discounts on a wide range of dental procedures, including crowns, and can be used for virtually any dental procedure within three days of joining the plan. And unlike dental insurance, dental savings plans don’t have deductibles, annual limits or waiting before you qualify for reduced rates.
(Want a quick peek at how much you can save on your dental care right now? Use the calculator below.)
Payment plans
Dental practices may offer payment plans or financing options that allow patients to spread the cost of their dental crown over several months. This can make the treatment more affordable and accessible.
Summary: Reducing the cost of dental crowns
The high cost of dental crowns is a result of multiple factors, including the quality of materials used, the labor-intensive fabrication process, the advanced technology employed, and the expertise required for proper placement. While the initial investment may seem substantial, the long-term benefits in terms of oral health, functionality, and aesthetics often justify the expense.
When considering a dental crown, it’s important to:
- Consult with your dentist to understand the specific reasons for recommending a crown and the best type for your situation.
- Explore your insurance coverage and discuss payment options with your dental office.
- Consider the long-term value of the crown in maintaining your oral health and preventing future dental issues.
- Look into dental savings plans that can help reduce your overall expense while ensuring quality treatment.
Remember, investing in a high-quality dental crown is an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. By understanding the factors that contribute to the cost, you can make an informed decision about your dental care and how you choose to pay for it – dental savings plan, dental insurance, or another payment option.
*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan. All cost averages obtained from DentalPlans.com procedure search tool, and independent research.