How much do dental crowns cost?

Crowns are a common dental treatment, but the cost of crowns can vary Once it is determined you need a crown, Dr. Frahm explains your  options. Ultimately, the cost of your crown depends on the materials it’s made of.  

Read: Why do you need a dental crown? 

What are dental crowns made of?

Permanent dental crowns are made from either porcelain, ceramic, base metals, composite resin, and even zirconia. Let’s break down each type and what you can expect for the cost:

Porcelain: is a non-toxic dental material that works with the body’s natural systems. Porcelain naturally adheres to your DNA, making it five times stronger than your natural teeth. Porcelain can also be perfectly matched to the exact color of your teeth. As for cost, according to Authority Dental, porcelain crowns can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500.

Ceramic is a beautiful option for crowns. Their color and sheen match your tooth’s natural aesthetic. Ceramic crowns are long-lasting, making them a great option. Ceramic crowns typically cost about the same as porcelain at $1000-$2,500 per crown.  

Metals like gold, platinum or nickel are commonly used for crowns on back molars. These metals are incredibly strong and long-lasting. The downside of metal crowns are they do not match your tooth color and can cause allergic reactions in some people. Depending on the type of metal, each of these crowns can cost between $800-$2,500. 

Zirconia is the newest material being used for dental crowns. It’s a type of ceramic that offers superior strength and durability to withstand many years of wear. However, it can be difficult to match zirconia exactly to your tooth color. The cost of zirconia crowns can cost upwards of $1,000-$2,000 each. 

Composite resin crowns are a popular option since they cost less than other materials. However, resin crowns are more likely to crack and wear down. This means they will need to be replaced more frequently. Resin composite crowns average about $300. 

Please note: Depending on your location, the expertise of your dentist and lab fees, the cost for crowns and other dental treatments may differ. 

Paying for dental crowns

The prices listed above are out-of-pocket costs. Dental benefits typically cover a portion of crown costs.  One caveat to keep in mind: some insurance policies have waiting periods of one to two years before they’ll cover a crown. So, it’s always a good idea to review your dental benefits policy before treatment. 

Talk to Dr. Frahm about custom porcelain and ceramic CEREC crowns that can be fitted and placed in just one visit. If you are ready to see how quickly and beautifully custom crowns can transform your smile, please call 831-372-8011 today or contact Dr. Sarah Frahm. We serve patients in and around the communities of Monterey, Carmel, and Pebble Beach.