The Complete Guide to Dental Crowns: Types, Costs, and Benefits

Dental crowns are a popular and effective solution for restoring damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth. They cover the entire tooth, providing strength, protection, and aesthetic improvement. Whether you’re considering a dental crown due to a large cavity, cracked tooth, or after a root canal, understanding the types of dental crowns, their costs, and their benefits is essential. In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dental crowns.

types of dental crowns and cost


What is a Dental Crown?


A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. Crowns are custom-made to fit over your existing tooth, effectively covering it and protecting it from further damage. They are often used when a tooth is severely decayed, cracked, or after certain procedures like root canals. Dental crowns can also be used to enhance the appearance of teeth, improving the overall smile.


Types of Dental Crowns and Cost


There are several types of dental crowns available, each made from different materials, and the choice of material often depends on the location of the tooth, the level of functionality needed, and aesthetic preferences. Below are the most common types of dental crowns:


1. Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are often preferred for their natural appearance and ability to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. These crowns are made of ceramic materials, which makes them a good option for front teeth that require both strength and aesthetic appeal. They are durable and provide an excellent colour match to your natural teeth.


Pros:

  • Excellent aesthetic results
  • Highly durable and resistant to wear


Cons:

  • Can be more prone to chipping than metal crowns
  • It may not be as strong as metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns for back teeth


Tooth Crown Cost: Porcelain crowns can be more expensive than other types, typically ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 per tooth.


2. Metal Crowns


Metal crowns are made from alloys, typically a combination of gold, platinum, or other metals. These crowns are incredibly strong and durable, making them a good choice for back teeth that experience a lot of chewing pressure. However, their metallic appearance means they are not ideal for visible teeth.


Pros:

  • Extremely durable and long-lasting
  • Less likely to chip or wear down
  • Requires less removal of the natural tooth structure


Cons:

  • They are highly visible, making them unsuitable for front teeth
  • It can be more expensive depending on the metal used


Tooth Crown Cost: Metal crowns tend to cost between $800 and $2,500 per tooth, depending on the materials used.


3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns


These crowns offer the aesthetic benefits of porcelain with the strength of a metal base. The porcelain veneer covers the metal base, creating a natural-looking appearance while benefiting from the durability of the metal. These crowns are often used for both front and back teeth.


Pros:

  • More aesthetic than metal-only crowns
  • Stronger than porcelain crowns alone
  • Better suited for both front and back teeth


Cons:

  • It may have a dark line at the gum line due to the metal
  • It can be more expensive than all-porcelain crowns


Tooth Crown Cost: Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns usually cost between $1,000 and $2,000 per tooth.


4. Resin Crowns


Resin crowns are made from composite resin, which is a material commonly used in fillings. While they are more affordable than porcelain or metal crowns, resin crowns are not as durable and can wear down faster over time.


Pros:

  • Lower cost
  • Aesthetic, as they blend well with natural teeth


Cons:

  • Not as durable as porcelain or metal crowns
  • More prone to wear and tear over time


Tooth Crown Cost: Resin crowns typically cost between $600 and $1,500 per tooth.


5. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made from a durable, bio-compatible ceramic material. They offer the strength of metal crowns but with a more natural appearance. Zirconia is also highly resistant to wear and fracture, making it a popular choice for both front and back teeth.


Pros:

  • Very durable and strong
  • Natural appearance, especially for back teeth
  • Bio-compatible and gentle on gums


Cons:

  • It can be more expensive than other options


Tooth Crown Cost: Zirconia crowns can range from $1,000 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the complexity and location of the crown.


Benefits of Dental Crowns


Dental crowns offer numerous benefits for individuals with damaged or weakened teeth. Here are the key advantages:


1. Protection and Strength


Crowns provide a protective layer over a weakened tooth, preventing further damage and ensuring it continues to function properly. This is especially important after a root canal, where a tooth becomes more fragile and prone to breaking.


2. Aesthetic Improvement


Crowns can significantly improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, discoloured, or misshapen. Porcelain and zirconia crowns, in particular, blend seamlessly with natural teeth, providing a highly aesthetic result.


3. Long-Lasting Solution


Dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting. With proper care, crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, or even longer in some cases. They are a reliable option for restoring damaged teeth and improving their longevity.


4. Restore Functionality


Crowns restore the full function of a tooth, allowing patients to chew, bite, and speak properly. This is particularly important for teeth used for grinding or chewing, such as the molars.


How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?


The types of dental crowns and cost vary depending on the material used, the location of the tooth, and the dentist's expertise. On average, the tooth crown cost can range from $600 to $2,500 per tooth. While porcelain and zirconia crowns are typically more expensive, they offer superior aesthetics and durability. Metal crowns are usually more affordable but are better suited for back teeth where appearance is less of a concern.


It’s important to note that dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost of crowns, depending on the reason for the crown and the specifics of your plan. Be sure to check with your dentist and insurance provider for a clearer idea of costs and coverage.

In summary, dental crowns are an effective and long-lasting solution for repairing damaged or weakened teeth. With a range of options available, including porcelain, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, resin, and zirconia, there’s a crown to suit every need and budget. While the types of dental crowns and tooth crown cost can vary, the benefits of choosing a crown—such as protection, strength, aesthetic improvement, and restored functionality—make them a worthwhile investment in your oral health. Always consult with your best dentist near me to determine which type of crown is best for your specific needs, and ensure that you receive the best possible treatment. 

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