Types of Dental Crown and Cost: A Complete Guide

Dental Crowns: Types and Cost

Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative procedures in dentistry, designed to restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth. Whether you need a crown due to decay, a cracked tooth, or after a root canal, understanding the different types of crowns and their costs can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the types of dental crowns, their benefits, and how much each type typically costs. We'll also cover factors that influence the price and offer tips for selecting the best option for your dental needs.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired by a filling or bonding but not so compromised that extraction is required. Dental crowns are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, and they can be made from a variety of materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Crowns are typically recommended for:

• Cracked or broken teeth
• Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment
• Severely decayed teeth
• Cosmetic enhancements for discolored or misshaped teeth
• Replacing large fillings when there isn't enough tooth structure remaining

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns, each made from different materials. The choice of crown depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the extent of the damage, aesthetics, and cost. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of dental crowns:

1. Porcelain Crowns (Ceramic Crowns)

Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance and are often used for front teeth. These crowns are made entirely of ceramic material and are highly biocompatible, meaning they are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction or irritation.

Pros:

• Highly aesthetic and natural-looking
• Stain-resistant
• Suitable for individuals with metal allergies

Cons:

• Less durable than metal crowns
• More prone to chipping or breaking
• Not ideal for molars or teeth that endure heavy chewing

Cost:

The cost of porcelain crowns ranges from $800 to $3,000 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the procedure and geographic location.

2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of a metal crown with the natural appearance of porcelain. A metal base is used for durability, and a layer of porcelain is fused over the metal to blend with your natural teeth. PFM crowns are a popular choice for both front and back teeth.

Pros:

• Strong and durable
• Natural appearance with metal strength
• More affordable than all-porcelain crowns

Cons:

• Metal may show through the porcelain over time
• Porcelain can wear down opposing teeth
• Prone to chipping at the porcelain surface

Cost:

PFM crowns typically cost between $600 and $2,500 per tooth.

3. Metal Crowns (Gold Alloy, Palladium, Nickel, or Chromium)

Metal crowns are made from a variety of metal alloys, including gold, palladium, nickel, and chromium. They are known for their strength and durability, making them ideal for molars that endure heavy chewing forces. While not as aesthetic as porcelain crowns, metal crowns last the longest and rarely chip or break.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Less tooth structure needs to be removed during preparation
• Resistant to wear

Cons:

• Noticeable metallic color
• Not suitable for front teeth

Cost:

Metal crowns range from $800 to $2,500, with gold crowns on the higher end of the price range.

4. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are a newer option made from zirconium dioxide, a type of very durable ceramic. These crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, making them a popular choice for both front and back teeth. Zirconia crowns can also be layered with porcelain for an even more natural look.

Pros:

• Extremely strong and durable
• Natural-looking
• Biocompatible and unlikely to cause allergic reactions
• Less likely to chip than porcelain

Cons:

• Can be abrasive to opposing teeth
• More expensive than some other options

Cost:

Zirconia crowns typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 per tooth.

5. E-Max Crowns (Lithium Disilicate Crowns)

E-Max crowns are made from lithium disilicate, a glass-ceramic material known for its durability and aesthetics. These crowns are particularly popular for restoring front teeth due to their excellent natural appearance.

Pros:

• Highly aesthetic and natural-looking
• Durable and strong for front teeth
• Minimal tooth preparation required

Cons:

• Expensive
• May not be as durable as zirconia for back teeth

Cost:

The cost of E-Max crowns ranges from $1,200 to $3,000 per tooth.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dental Crowns

Several factors influence the cost of dental crowns, including:

1. Type of Crown Material

As discussed above, different materials come with varying price tags. Metal crowns tend to be less expensive than all-porcelain or zirconia crowns, but porcelain and zirconia offer better aesthetics.

2. Location of the Tooth

Crowns for molars may be more expensive than crowns for front teeth because they need to withstand more pressure and force from chewing.

3. Dental Insurance

Some dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of crowns, particularly if the procedure is deemed medically necessary. Check with your insurance provider to see what coverage you may have.

4. Geographic Location

Dental crown costs can vary depending on where you live. Urban areas with a higher cost of living may charge more for dental procedures.

5. Dentist's Expertise

Highly experienced or specialized dentists may charge more for crowns due to their expertise. However, the quality of care and the longevity of the crown may make this investment worthwhile.

Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Preparation

During your first visit, the dentist will examine the tooth that needs the crown and may take X-rays to assess its condition. The tooth will be shaped to make room for the crown, and if there is significant decay, the dentist may need to build up the tooth structure with a filling.

2. Impression

Once the tooth is prepared, an impression of your tooth is taken using a putty-like material or digital scanner. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your custom crown will be fabricated.

3. Temporary Crown

While your permanent crown is being made, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it.

4. Fitting the Permanent Crown

During your second visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be cemented in place. The dentist will ensure the fit and bite are correct before finalizing the procedure.

Maintaining Your Dental Crown

With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years. To extend the life of your crown, follow these maintenance tips:

• Brush and floss daily: Continue practicing good oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup around the crown.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods: These can damage or dislodge the crown.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups will ensure that your crown remains in good condition.
• Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard will protect both your crown and natural teeth.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are an essential tool in restorative dentistry, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. With a wide range of materials to choose from, it’s important to consider your needs, the tooth’s location, and your budget when deciding on the type of crown that’s right for you. While the cost of dental crowns can vary, the long-term benefits of a well-made crown often outweigh the initial expense.

At Club 32 Dentistry, we provide personalized care to help you choose the right type of dental crown. Whether you're looking for a strong, durable option or an aesthetic solution for your front teeth, we’re here to guide you through the process and ensure a successful, comfortable outcome.

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