The cost of dental crowns can vary but, dental crowns are used to restore teeth that are weakened or damaged, or may be used for cosmetic purposes. They treat decayed and damaged teeth, or improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, misshapen, or have other imperfections.
A crown is essentially a dental cap that sits on top of a damaged or broken tooth to cover and protect it.
If your tooth has been weakened by tooth decay, or your tooth structure needs strengthening so that it can support a dental appliance like a bridge, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. Dentists often use crowns to restore broken teeth from an accident. They’re a versatile solution to treat a range of concerns from teeth weakened in a variety of ways to cosmetic concerns about colour, size, or shape.
Variables in Dental Crown Cost
The exact cost for a dental crown can vary a great deal depending on your individual circumstances and other factors. It will even depend on your location, since in a high cost of living area, prices may be higher. However, there are some consistent factors that will influence the cost for your dental crowns.
It is important to note that a dental crown is cost effective compared to other procedures that might be needed if you don’t have a crown. Without the support and structure, your tooth may be more vulnerable to damage and decay, needing more complex treatment, and potentially resulting in the loss of the tooth.
Insurance
Most dental insurance policies cover medically-necessary dental crowns up to 50% of the cost, but each policy can vary. There are usually waiting periods of one or two years before you are allowed to make a claim on a dental crown. Be sure to read and understand your dental insurance policy to know what will be covered.
Number of Crowns
This may seem obvious, but the more crowns you need, the more they will cost. Some patients who need crowns for other dental work, such as to support a bridge, may not realize this cost needs to be factored in.
Cost of Attached Dental Appliances
If your dental crown is to be the anchor for a bridge, or is the artificial tooth portion of a dental implant, there will be additional costs. There are additional materials for the bridges or dental implants, plus extra costs to cover the procedure time to affix these appliances.
Dental Crown Cost Varies By Material
Dental crowns come in a variety of materials such as gold, zirconia, porcelain. Each offers different benefits, and will have an impact on cost.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns look most like natural teeth, so are a popular choice for front teeth. They are stain resistant and aesthetic, but are not as durable as some other materials. This means they won’t last as long as others, which affects the long-term cost-effectiveness. They can be expected to last five to 15 years, and are one of the more expensive types of dental crowns.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns are very durable, but not as aesthetic as tooth coloured options, so tend to be used for back molars. They last about 15 to 30 years, so their overall cost in the long term is good. While other types of metal crowns are available, gold crowns are most common.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are the cheapest option, and are highly durable. They are not commonly used, however, because they are not aesthetic, except for children’s baby teeth that are expected to fall out.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are more aesthetic than metal crowns, although a thin band of metal structure is visible at the gum line, and are more durable than pure porcelain crowns. They tend to be slightly cheaper than porcelain crowns, and last ten to 15 years
Zirconia Crowns
A zirconia crown will be the most expensive. They look very natural and are much more durable than porcelain.
Dental Crowns' Cost Over Time
Some types of dental crowns cost more initially, but last longer, so may be cheaper over time. How you care for your crown will have a big impact on its longevity, however. If you don’t bite on hard surfaces or use your teeth as tools, and maintain good oral hygiene, your crown is likely to last longer. Dental crowns on back molars will experience more pressure and wear and tear, so may not last as long.
Talk to Your Dentist
If you are concerned about cost, speak to your dentist or the office about less expensive options or payment plans. It’s important to remember that leaving a damaged or weakened tooth untreated will not only be painful, but could cost you more in the long term.
For top-notch dental crowns in Erin Mills, turn to Onyx Dental. We’re here to ensure you get the right crown for your unique needs. Contact us at (905) 567-4999 or visit our office at 2555 Erin Centre Blvd Unit 12, Mississauga, ON L5M 5H1. Your dental health is our priority.
