TL;DR:
- Depending on the material (metal, zirconia, PFM, or all-porcelain crowns), dental crowns can cost around $800-$3,000.
- Insurance coverage up to 50% when crowns are medically necessary, though cosmetic treatments may not qualify.
- Payment plans are available to spread costs instead of paying the full amount up front.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dentist may recommend a dental crown when a tooth is cracked, worn, or weakened by decay. In these cases, a crown helps protect the tooth, restore its shape, and make chewing and smiling easier. Crowns are also often needed after root canal treatments or to cover large fillings, keeping the tooth strong and functional.
When patients learn they need a crown, their first concern is usually the dental crown cost. Dental crown prices can differ depending on the material and the location of the crown. Understanding these factors beforehand can help you plan better and avoid unexpected expenses.
How Can I Estimate My Dental Crown Cost?
Your cost of dental crown solely depends on which type of crown you select. There are various types of dental crowns that dentists suggest to their patients. The material your dental crown is fashioned from depends on the severity of your decayed tooth.
If you have a good dental insurance policy, getting a dental crown may not put too much strain on your wallet. At Norwood Dental, we accept most insurance plans and also offer in-house payment plans for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. We work with you to make treatment affordable, so you can get the care you need without worrying about the cost.
Different Types of Dental Crowns and Their Costs
Here are some of the common types of dental crowns that your dentist may suggest:
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are commonly used dental crowns made from metals like gold, palladium, chromium, and nickel. They are highly durable, resistant to wear, and require less removal of the natural tooth, making them ideal for back teeth. However, they look less natural and may occasionally cause swelling or allergic reactions.
The costs vary by metal, with gold crowns being the most expensive and base metals like cobalt-chromium or nickel-chromium being more affordable. On average, metal crowns range from $900 to $2,500.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is one of the newest materials used for dental crowns. These metal-free, biocompatible crowns reduce the risk of allergic reactions, making them a safer option for many patients.
As a ceramic material, zirconia is highly durable and has a long lifespan, while also being gentle on tooth enamel, which makes it especially suitable for molars. However, solid zirconia can be difficult to adjust, and its hardness may cause increased wear on opposing teeth.
The cost of Zirconia crowns typically ranges from $800 to $3,000.
Porcelain Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
PFMs are another widely used type of dental crown. Fusing porcelain with metal increases the aesthetic value, making them resemble natural teeth. People tend to choose porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns because they are aesthetic, durable, and cheap compared to all-porcelain crowns.
PFM dental crowns typically range from $800 to $2,400. Dentists often recommend them for patients seeking a solid, natural-looking smile.
However, the porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns may cause a grey line at the gum line. This type of crown also wears out more quickly in people who clench their teeth.
All Porcelain Crowns
All-porcelain dental crowns are designed to closely resemble natural teeth, making them an ideal choice for front teeth. Like the zirconia crowns, these crowns are also biocompatible and non-toxic.
The key drawback of these crowns is that they are quite strong and relatively expensive compared to other dental crowns. The cost of these dental crowns ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.
Here is a quick summary table:
| Crown Type | Cost Range | Best For | Key Features |
| Metal Crowns | $900 – $2,500 | Back teeth | Extremely durable; gold costs more than base metals |
| Zirconia Crowns | $800 – $3,000 | Molars | Strong ceramic; less wear on surrounding teeth |
| Porcelain Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $800 – $2,400 | General use | Combines strength with natural appearance |
| All Porcelain Crowns | $1,000 – $2,500 | Front teeth | Most natural-looking; premium aesthetic option |
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost with Insurance?
Your dental crown cost depends on the dental insurance policy you have. Usually, dental insurance covers X-rays, annual dental cleanings, and fillings. Cosmetic dentistry is not covered under many policies and may not cover much else except emergency dental treatments.
For example, in your policy, if the dental crowns are registered as an essential service, you may save up to 50% of your cost. So, if your dental crown costs $2,000, your insurance will cover up to $1,000. Many dental policies also have an annual coverage limit between $1,000 to $1,500.
Some clinics also offer flexible payment plans, so you don’t have to pay the entire cost upfront. You can discuss these systemic payment plans in detail at your dental clinic.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to repairing or replacing decayed or damaged teeth, we understand that the dental crown cost is often a top concern. While costs may seem daunting, your dental insurance can help make treatment more affordable, and at Norwood Dental, we also offer in-house payment plans for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.
Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and nothing makes us happier than seeing our patients leave with a radiant smile. As a trusted dentist in norwood, we focus on restoring both the function and appearance of your teeth with precision and care.
To book an appointment, email us at appointments@norwood-dental.com or call us at (952)467-3518. You can also visit us in person at 222 E Wilson St, Norwood Young America, MN 55368.
FAQs
- Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover crowns at least partially, especially if they are medically necessary. Coverage can vary, so verify with your provider.
- How long do dental crowns typically last?
With proper care, dental crowns usually last between 10 to 15 years, though some can last longer.
- Can I eat normally with a crown?
Yes, you can eat normally. Avoid extremely hard, sticky, or chewy foods immediately after placement to protect the crown.
- Can teeth get cavities under a crown?
Yes, the underlying tooth can still develop cavities, so maintaining good oral hygiene is essential.
