Types of Dental Crowns and Costs

Dental crowns are a popular restorative solution for damaged or decayed teeth. They provide protection and improve the appearance of a tooth by covering it with a cap. Understanding the types of dental crowns available and their costs can help you make an informed decision about your dental care.

A dental crown, or tooth cap, covers a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It is used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling or after a root canal, and can also improve the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth, with the price varying based on material and complexity.

What are the different types of dental crowns?

There are several types of dental crowns, each with distinct advantages:

Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are popular for their natural look, blending seamlessly with your teeth. They are often used for front teeth.
Metal Crowns: Made from gold or other metal alloys, metal crowns are durable and resistant to wear, but they are more noticeable.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Combining the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, PFM crowns offer a good balance of durability and appearance.
Ceramic Dental Crowns: These crowns provide a metal-free option for those with metal allergies. They offer excellent aesthetics, especially for front teeth.
Silver Dental Crowns: While less common, silver crowns are durable and often used for molars due to their strength.

The cost of crowns varies depending on the type of crown selected and the materials used.

What is the Cost of Dental Crowns?

The cost of dental crowns varies significantly depending on the type of material used, as each type offers unique benefits and limitations that influence the price:

Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns are among the more expensive options, typically costing between $1,200 and $2,500. Their high cost is due to their superior aesthetic appeal, as they closely mimic the natural look of teeth, making them ideal for front teeth. The labour-intensive process of shaping and colouring porcelain to match the surrounding teeth also contributes to the higher price.
Metal Crowns: Metal crowns, particularly those made from gold or other precious alloys, are known for their durability and resistance to wear. These crowns cost between $1,500 and $3,000, with gold crowns on the higher end due to the cost of the material. Metal crowns are often more expensive because of the longevity and strength they provide, making them an excellent choice for molars that endure heavy chewing forces.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns strike a balance between cost and aesthetics, with prices typically ranging from $1,300 to $2,800. These crowns are less expensive than full porcelain crowns, but still offer a natural look thanks to the porcelain coating. However, they can be slightly less durable than metal crowns, as the porcelain layer can chip over time.
Ceramic Dental Crowns: Ceramic crowns, priced between $1,200 and $2,500, offer a metal-free alternative that is both biocompatible and visually appealing. While ceramic crowns are ideal for people with metal allergies, their cost is driven by the complex fabrication process and their high aesthetic value, especially for front teeth.
Silver Dental Crowns: Silver crowns are one of the more affordable options, typically costing between $1,200 and $2,000. Though not as aesthetically pleasing as other options, silver crowns are highly durable, making them a practical choice for molars. Their lower price is attributed to the less expensive material and the fact that they are more functional than cosmetic.

What Factors influence the cost of dental crowns?

Several factors impact the price of dental crowns:

Material: The type of material used plays a major role in determining the cost of dental crowns. For example, porcelain crowns for teeth are typically more expensive than metal or PFM crowns.
Location: The cost of crowns in Australia can fluctuate based on the region. Urban areas often have higher dental fees than rural locations.
Complexity: If additional dental work, such as a root canal, is required before placing the crown, the overall dental charges for crowns will increase.
Dentist Experience: A highly experienced dentist may charge more for their services, impacting the cost to replace a tooth crown.

How does dental crown cost vary in Australia?

The dental crown cost in Australia can vary widely. In major cities, you may find that tooth crown prices are higher than in smaller towns or regional areas. On average, how much a crown costs in Australia ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 depending on the material and the specific case.

Dental Crowns Types and Cost FAQs

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, depending on the type of crown and how well it’s maintained. For example, metal crowns tend to last longer than porcelain dental crowns, which may wear down faster due to the material.

What factors affect the lifespan of dental crowns?

The longevity of a crowned tooth depends on factors such as oral hygiene, the material of the crown, and the location of the tooth. For instance, tooth crowns made of metal tend to be more durable than porcelain crowns. Regular dental checkups and proper care can extend the lifespan of your crown.

Can dental crowns be repaired or replaced?

Yes, dental crowns can be repaired or replaced if damaged. The cost to replace a tooth crown will depend on the extent of the damage and the material used for the replacement.

Does Medicare cover dental crowns?

In Australia, Medicare generally does not cover the cost of dental crowns. However, some private health insurance plans may offer partial coverage for dental crown prices, depending on your policy and the level of cover.