17 Jan 2019 How Much Do Crowns Cost?
Most of us, at some point in our lives, are going to need a crown. Crowns are tooth shaped caps that are put on teeth sometimes after a root canal, after several cavities on the same too, or after infection or injury. Crowns can help preserve a tooth that is weakened or compromised. A crown is a much better option than having a tooth pulled and then having to pay for an implant or deal with a bridge. Crowns can look very similar to real teeth and can function as real teeth, too.
The question that all of us want answered before we go to the dentist is how much a crown is going to cost. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to estimate the cost of crowns because they are a custom product. Each one is custom-made to fit perfectly in a person’s mouth. Several factors can influence the cost of a dental crown: the material the crown is made of, how big the crown is, the location of the tooth being crowned, the experience of the dentist, and the “going” rates of dentistry in your area.
Other factors that can affect the cost of a crown include whether or not you have insurance that will pay part of the bill and the structure of the tooth itself. Do you need a root canal before a crown is placed? Or does your tooth need to be built up in order to be fit with a crown? Additional procedures will increase the cost of getting a crown. Meeting with your dentist and having him or her look at your tooth is the only way to figure out what you really need. If you meet with one dentist and worry that the price is too high, know that you can get a second opinion.
Materials used to make crowns
Most dentists have 4 different types of dental crowns at their disposal:
- All Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns – These crowns look the most like real teeth. Many people prefer them although they can break under force.
- Zirconia or Milled Crown – Crown made from zirconia are ideal for those who have broken their natural teeth or porcelain crowns through bruxing or grinding.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are stronger than ceramic crowns. The crown has a metal structure that is covered with porcelain.
- All Resin – All resin crowns are less expensive than other crown types but are far weaker. Typically all-resin crowns are only used as a temporary solution while a more permanent option such as one listed above is being made.
- Gold alloys are strong and resistant to chipping. They will be gold in appearance.
- Base metal alloys are also strong. They will be silver in appearance. These are typically only used for small children when a crown is only needed on a baby tooth for a year or two.
If your dentist decides you need a crown, he or she will discuss with you the best type of crown for your particular problem. If the tooth being repaired is in the front of your mouth, most likely your dentist will recommend a ceramic crown because the look the best. If you are repairing a molar, a different type of crown like a porcelain-fused-to-metal may be recommended because it is stronger and could withstand pressure from grinding better. Costs for all of these types of crowns can vary depending on many different factors.
Prices or cost for a crown varies depending on where you live, the type of materials used, and even the experience level of the lab technician who makes the crown and the training and experience level of your dentist. Some dental offices have in-house machines that make your crown while you wait. These can add cost to your crown as well. There are many factors to consider when deciding what type of crown is the best for you. Read more about the different types of dental crowns in Salt Lake City and how they’re made as well as what to expect during your crown appointment.
Whatever crown you choose, your mouth will thank you for years to come! At Holladay Family Dental we take the time to educate our patients on the many different options and prices of crowns available to them. Dr. Greaves is one the best dentists in Salt Lake City and he would love to help you decide on the best type of crown for you that will also fit your budget.