Dental crowns are a popular solution if you’re considering boosting your smile or restoring damaged teeth. From their durability to their natural appearance, dental crowns offer significant benefits. But how much do dental crowns cost? In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know, from types and procedures to pricing factors and insurance coverage, so that you can make an informed decision for your dental care.
What Are Dental Crowns, and Why Might You Need Them?
A dental crown is a customised cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are versatile and can address various dental issues, including:
- Damaged or decayed teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Discoloured teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Weakened teeth due to trauma or wear
- Restoring tooth structure after a root canal treatment
They are also used in conjunction with dental bridges or implants to replace missing teeth.
How Does the Dental Crown Procedure Work?
The dental crown procedure typically involves multiple steps and visits to your dentist:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will check your oral health, identify the need for a crown, and discuss your treatment plan. They may take X-rays to evaluate the extent of tooth damage.
- Tooth Preparation: The dentist will carefully prepare the tooth to ensure the crown fits snugly. For severely damaged teeth, additional steps like root canal therapy may be required.
- Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is fitted to safeguard the tooth, while your permanent crown is custom-crafted in a dental laboratory.
- Crown Fabrication: The crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory using materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal.
- Permanent Crown Placement: During the final appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and attach the permanent crown to the tooth. Adjustments may be made to ensure a natural appearance and proper bite alignment.
Types of Dental Crowns and Their Costs
The cost of dental crowns varies significantly depending on the material and complexity. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of dental crowns:
Porcelain Crowns
- Made from porcelain material, these provide a natural appearance, making them ideal for front teeth.
- Cost: starts at $1,200 per tooth
Ceramic Crowns
- Excellent for discoloured teeth or chipped teeth, ceramic crowns mimic the look of natural teeth.
- Cost: starts at $1,000 per tooth
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns
- These combine the aesthetics of porcelain with the strength of metal. However, the metal edge may become visible over time.
- Cost: starts at $900 per tooth
All Metal Crowns
- Durable and long-lasting, metal crowns are often used for weakened teeth at the back of the mouth.
- Cost: starts at $800 per tooth
Zirconia Crowns
- These are known for their exceptional strength and natural appearance.
- Cost: starts at $1,500 per tooth
Factors That Influence Dental Crown Costs
The dental crown cost varies significantly depending on several factors:
- Material used: Premium options like zirconia crowns or porcelain dental crowns have a higher cost.
- Tooth location: Crowns for visible teeth, like the front ones, are typically more expensive.
- Dentist’s experience: A highly skilled dentist may charge more for their expertise.
- Dental laboratory fees: The cost of customising crowns in a dental lab affects the overall price.
- Additional dental procedures such as root canal treatment or a dental implant can increase the final bill.
- Geographic location: For instance, the cost in Melbourne might be higher than in smaller towns.
Maintaining Your Dental Crown
To prolong the life of your crown and protect your oral health, consider these tips:
- Practise good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that could dislodge or damage a dental crown.
- Visit your dentist regularly to monitor your crown and overall dental health.
The Advantages of Dental Crowns: Beyond Simple Restoration
Dental crowns are widely recognised for their role in restoring damaged or decayed teeth, but their benefits extend far beyond simple restoration. Whether you’re looking to protect weakened teeth or enhance your smile, dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution. Let’s explore the many advantages they offer.
Restoring Tooth Functionality
Dental crowns act as a durable replacement for the outer structure of a damaged tooth, restoring its ability to bite, chew, and speak without discomfort. This makes everyday tasks more comfortable and efficient.
Strengthening Weakened Teeth
Teeth weakened by decay, cracks, or a root canal procedure are more prone to further damage. Crowns provide a protective shield, preventing fractures and maintaining the integrity of the tooth structure.
Protecting Against Tooth Decay
By sealing the tooth completely, crowns protect it from further tooth decay. This is particularly beneficial for patients with a history of cavities or those with decayed teeth requiring reinforcement.
Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal
Dental crowns are designed to match the natural appearance of teeth, offering a seamless blend with your smile. They are particularly effective in addressing discoloured teeth, misshapen teeth, or chipped teeth, ensuring an attractive smile.
Replacing Missing Teeth
Crowns are a vital component of dental bridges and dental implants, which replace missing teeth. They provide a natural-looking and functional solution to restore your smile and prevent alignment issues caused by gaps.
Versatility Across Dental Needs
From porcelain fused to metal crowns to ceramic crowns and zirconia crowns, there’s a crown material to suit every dental situation. Whether it’s for front teeth that require a more natural look or back teeth that demand durability, crowns cater to diverse needs.
Preventing Further Damage
Dental crowns protect damaged teeth from additional wear, whether due to grinding, chewing on sticky foods, or other daily stresses. They help avoid more extensive procedures like extractions or additional restorative treatments.
Supporting Long-Term Oral Health
By restoring and protecting natural teeth, crowns improve your overall oral health. They ensure better bite alignment, reduce strain on adjacent teeth, and promote a healthy smile. With proper care and good oral hygiene habits, crowns can last for years.
Boosting Confidence
A dental crown does more than improve your bite; it enhances your self-esteem. Knowing your teeth are healthy and look great can make a noticeable difference in your day-to-day interactions, helping you smile confidently.
Customised to Your Needs
Dental crowns are tailored to match your tooth structure, colour, and specific dental needs. This ensures not only comfort but also a personalised touch that makes them virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Exploring Your Options: What Are the Alternatives to Dental Crowns?
While dental crowns are a versatile solution, other dental treatments may suit specific cases of tooth damage or cosmetic concerns. Here’s a comparison:
Veneers
Porcelain veneers or composite veneers are ultra-thin shells applied to the front of visible teeth to correct discoloured teeth or misshapen teeth. While they enhance aesthetics, they don’t provide the structural support of crowns.
- Pros: Excellent for cosmetic fixes
- Cons: Less durable, not suitable for extensive damage
- Cost: starts at $800 per tooth
Fillings
Dental fillings are used to treat small areas of decay. They’re a cost-effective option for minor tooth damage, but they don’t offer the same level of protection as crowns.
- Pros: Quick and affordable
- Cons: Limited durability, unsuitable for large areas of decay
Dental Crown Longevity: How Long Do They Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown differs based on several factors:
Material Choice
- Porcelain crowns and zirconia crowns can last 10–15 years with proper care.
- Porcelain fused to metal crowns may last slightly less due to potential wear on the porcelain.
- Metal crowns often last 20 years or more but lack the aesthetic appeal of ceramic options.
Maintenance
Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and avoiding harmful habits like grinding or chewing on ice significantly extend a crown’s lifespan.
Proper Fit and Placement
Crowns designed and placed by an experienced dentist are less likely to encounter issues such as loosening or falling off.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Crowns?
Insurance coverage for crowns depends on your insurance provider and plan. Typically, dental insurance may cover part of the tooth crown cost if it’s deemed medically necessary (e.g., for a damaged or decayed tooth). Cosmetic purposes, like improving an attractive smile, may not be covered.
Flexible Financing Options to Make Your Smile Affordable
Restoring your dental health and achieving the smile you’ve always wanted shouldn’t be limited by financial concerns. Fortunately, there are several financing options available to help cover the cost of dental crowns and other dental procedures:
Medibank and BUPA Coverage
Many dental insurance plans, including Medibank and BUPA, offer partial or full coverage for crowns, depending on the specifics of your policy. These plans help ease the financial burden of essential dental services, ensuring that quality care remains accessible.
VEDS and VGDS Vouchers
As part of initiatives to support the community, the Victorian Emergency Dental Scheme (VEDS) and Victorian General Dental Scheme (VGDS) vouchers are available for eligible patients. These vouchers can be used for various treatments, including crowns, making it easier for individuals to preserve their oral health and enjoy a healthy smile.
These financing options are part of a broader commitment to ensuring everyone has access to dental care, no matter their financial circumstances. Speak to your dentist or insurance provider to explore the most suitable options for your needs.
Why Invest in Dental Crowns?
Investing in a dental crown means prioritising your oral health, aesthetics, and functionality. Whether you’re opting to repair a damaged tooth or enhance your cosmetic dentistry goals, crowns offer a durable and versatile solution that endures over time.
Dental crowns are a major investment in your oral health and cosmetic dentistry. They restore damaged teeth, protect weak teeth, and enhance your healthy smile. Whether it’s porcelain fused to metal or ceramic crowns, your choice impacts the durability and aesthetics of your dental restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
The procedure itself is generally tolerable due to anaesthesia. However, mild discomfort may occur after placement.
Are Crowns Permanent?
While crowns are durable, they are not permanent. With proper care, they can endure 10–15 years or more.
Can You Eat Normally with a Crown?
Yes, you can eat normally once your permanent crown is in place. However, it’s best to avoid hard or sticky foods initially, as these can put pressure on the crown. For temporary crowns, softer foods are recommended until the permanent crown is placed.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The dental crown procedure generally requires two visits to the dentist. The first visit involves tooth preparation and impressions, while the second focuses on fitting and bonding the crown. On average, the process takes 1–2 weeks, depending on the time required for the crown to be fabricated in a dental laboratory.
Can a Crown Fall Off?
Yes, crowns can loosen or fall off due to decay, damage, or poor fit. Regular check-ups can help prevent this.
What Happens if a Dental Crown Falls Off?
If your crown falls off, contact your dentist immediately. In the meantime, keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side. A fallen crown may indicate issues such as tooth damage, decay, or adhesive failure, which can be addressed during your appointment.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dental Crown for You
Dental crowns provide a versatile and durable solution for improving your smile and protecting your teeth. Whether you’re looking for porcelain crowns for a natural appearance or zirconia crowns for strength, your dentist can recommend the right option for your needs.
Looking to restore your healthy tooth and regain an attractive smile? Contact Melton Smiles at (03) 8007 2883 to discuss your treatment plan today!
References:
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental crowns. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10923-dental-crowns
Colgate. (n.d.). Dental impressions: What to expect. Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bridges-and-crowns/dental-impressions-what-to-expect
WebMD. (n.d.). Cosmetic dentistry. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/slideshow-cosmetic-dentistry
Medibank. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medibank.com.au/
Medical News Today. (n.d.). Temporary crown: Benefits, procedure, and aftercare. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/temporary-crown