Dental Gentle Care

Dental crowns are commonly used to cover up a root canal treatment, a missing filling, or a cracked tooth. Despite their popularity, this restoration is quite an expense: the average cost of a dental crown is $1,300. Apart from that, you will need to pay for some associated procedures.

Why are crowns so expensive? What should you take into consideration while getting a cover-up for your tooth? See our guide to dental crowns costs.

How much do dental crowns cost?

Two main factors that determine dental crown cost are the material of the restoration and the position of the tooth to cover up. Crowns on front teeth tend to be more expensive.

With materials, the situation is slightly more complicated. In the table below you can find an estimation of a cost range. Read on to get to know the pros and cons of each substance.

Dental crown type	Average cost	Cost range
Porcelain	$1,300	$1,000-$2,500
Zirconia	$1,300	$1,000-$2,500
PFM	$1,100	$800-$2,400
All-metal	$1,300	$900-$2,500
Provisional	$450	$200-$700

Porcelain

Porcelain crowns are also called “all-ceramic”. They are frequently chosen due to their great aesthetics and realistic appearance. Porcelain is toxic-free and biocompatible, so you don’t have to worry about allergic reactions.

On the downside, all-ceramic crowns tend to wear down the tooth that they bite on. Also, despite being one of the most expensive types of crowns, it’s the least durable.

Zirconia

Zirconia crowns are growing more and more popular, as they combine the advantages of porcelain and metal. They are biocompatible, yet still very durable. What’s more, usually they can be done in one day, so a temporary crown is not necessary.

However, their durability comes with disadvantages. Zirconia crowns are hard to adjust, and may slightly damage the opposite tooth. Often, they need to be covered with porcelain to hide the distinctive color of zirconia.

Porcelain fused to metal (PFM)

In this type of crown, the porcelain top is mounted on a metal base. This combination is very resistant and one of the most affordable.

Though the upper part looks very realistic, you can sometimes see the grey metal part above the gumline. Preparation demands more tooth reduction than with other types. Making PFM crowns takes some time, so be prepared to wear temporary ones in the meantime.

All-metalProvisional

A temporary crown protects your living tooth while you waiting more than a day for a permanent crown to be made. Usually, you wear it for about two weeks, and definitely shouldn’t keep it in your mouth for more than a few months. The materials aren’t designed to last too long. Also, this crown isn’t permanently attached.

In most cases, the charge for a provisional crown is included in the overall price of the restoration.

Additional costs when getting dental crown

Paying just for a dental crown is not the only expense in the process. First, you will have a dental examination, when the specialist determines whether you are a good candidate for getting a crown, and help you consider different options.

But before walking out with your new restoration a few weeks later, you may need also:

• X-ray,
• core build-up,
• diagnostic cast.

Dental X-ray

Before placing a crown in your mouth, it’s good to take a look at a full picture of the teeth, from root to the top. In this case, the most useful will be either a periapical or a bitewing X-ray. Luckily, this cost is usually included in the crown’s price.

Core build-up

When getting a crown on a normal-sized tooth, it normally has to be reducted, so the restoration could fit in. However, if the top structure is already worn down or lost for some reason, the opposite procedure is necessary – core build-up.

The dentist will add some resin materials to the remaining tooth to make it big enough to support the crown. This procedure costs between $200 and $500, typically about $300.

Diagnostic cast

A diagnostic cast is a model for a dental professional, to visualize how your teeth work together. This allows customizing your restoration even better. In order to do a study model, you will have to bite down on a depressor for a few minutes. A silicone mold will be taken to the lab and turn into a cast.

The cost of a diagnostic cast range from $50 to $300, $140 on average.

Are dental crowns covered by insurance?

The insurance providers usually cover up to 50% of the dental crown cost. However, the requirement is that the procedure must be medically necessary. For cosmetic treatment, you will pay fully out-of-pocket.

Sometimes the provider can reimburse part of the expense when a dental crown is considered preventative treatment. Also, they will likely cover the cost of a dental exam and X-rays, which are diagnostic procedures.

Additionally, you can sign up for a dental plan. It works similarly to a membership. Using the services of in-network dentists, you can save 10% to 60% on each visit. There are no yearly maximums, limits, or proving the necessity of treatment with tons of paperwork.

Affordable dental crowns near me

The price for the same type of crown can vary even for $1,500, depending on the localization and experience of the dentist. How to spot dental offices with reasonable prices but not be afraid of the quality of work?

Authority Dental can help. They will match you with the best dentists in your area, who won’t break your budget and accept your insurance or preferred form of payment. This service is completely free and available 24/7. Find out more on this page.

Questions & answers

Why do dental crowns cost so much?

The materials increase the prices the most since they have to meet strict requirements. They should be toxic-free, or even biocompatible, but at the same time durable enough to bear everyday pressure, clenching, and biting. It’s an investment: if properly made, dental crowns can last up to 20 years.

What is the cheapest crown for a tooth?

Although the average costs of different types of dental crowns look similar, it’s not so easy. All-metal crowns are the most affordable permanent restorations. They are strong and durable, but not so much aesthetically pleasing.

Provisional crowns may be cheaper, but they shouldn’t be worn for more than a couple of weeks.

More than half of Americans are missing one or more teeth. Due to the affordability of dentures, they are commonly picked as a restoration. And there is plenty to choose from: partials and full sets, traditional and immediate, made of resin or metal.

Apart from these decisions, you should also take into consideration associated expenses. Prior procedures, later maintenance, and cleaning materials add up to a bigger sum. So what’s the overall cost of dentures? Read on to explore all of the available options.

Partial dentures cost

The average cost of partial dentures varies between $1,500 and $2,000, depending on the material. For interim ones, you will pay around $750.

Partial denture type	Average cost	Cost range
Resin	$1,500	$800-$2,700
Flexible	$1,700	$900-$2,500
Metal	$2,000	$1,300-$3,100
Interim	$750	$450-$1,100

A partial denture fills the gaps between your natural teeth. Their price depends mostly on the materials they’re made of.

Resin dentures are the most common and affordable option. They look natural but press firmly on your gums, which may cause soreness. Also, they break easily.

Flexibles cling to the gums by themselves, so there is no need for metal clasps. They are lighter and last longer than resin, and cheaper than metal dentures. However, if broken, they cannot be fixed.

Metal dentures are the most durable, yet still bendable enough to provide a perfect fit. They are covered in plastic, but metal parts still can be visible in your mouth. Usually, they’re quite costly.

Full dentures cost

The average price of traditional dentures is about $1,800 and the interim cost roughly $900.

Full denture type	Average cost	Cost range
Traditional	$1,800	$1,000-$3,000
Immediate	$1,900	$1,000-$3,500
Interim	$900	$300-$2,000

Full dentures are designed for those who don’t have natural teeth anymore. It means that sometimes you need a few extractions before getting a full set. Removal of remaining teeth will significantly increase your final bill.

Making traditional dentures may take a few weeks, so in the meantime, you can wear interim. The latter one is the cheapest but not so durable option, as it is only a temporary replacement. If you don’t want to wait, choose immediate dentures, but be prepared to pay a little more.

Additional costs when getting dentures

The process of getting and using dentures is more expensive than the price of the false teeth itself. First, you need to prepare your mouth for new dentition. Then, wearing dentures will create some running costs. Overall, be prepared to pay for:

• oral exam,
• tooth extraction,
• denture adjustment, and
• denture relining.

Oral exam

Consultation with a dentist is the first step on your way to new dentures. He or she will check the condition of your gums and remaining teeth. Some minor procedures may be necessary, such as cavity filling or scaling and root planing.

The specialist helps you decide which type of dentures is the most suitable for your mouth. An X-ray might be needed.

Oral evaluation costs $50 to $200, usually about $100. Planning your budget, remember also about the costs of extra procedures advised by a dentist.

Tooth extraction

Teeth removal is often necessary to make a room for dentures. Unfortunately, the prices are usually steep, as more than one extraction is needed. The cost depends also on the type of anesthesia that you choose.

The average price for a single removal is about $200. If you need multiple procedures, your final dentures bill can even double.

Denture adjustment

Your mouth changes over time, so sooner or later your dentures will need some adjustments. It is especially common with immediate dentures, which are made before extractions. You should check for adjustment also when your dentures were cracked or fractured. The changes can be either cosmetic or functional.

A number of adjustments should be included in the cost of your dentures.

Denture relining

The relining procedure serves to adapt the dentures to fit your gums better. It prevents uncomfortable pressure, lumps, and irritation from the badly fitting prosthesis.

The reline is a running cost for denture-wearers. Soft reline should be done every year or two. It costs between $200-$500 and usually is ready by the end of your visit to the dentist’s office.

For hard reline, you will pay $350-$900, but it’s more accurate and lasts up to five years. Your dentures will be sent to the lab for a day.

Are dentures covered by insurance?

If dentures are medically required, most providers cover standard, low-cost false teeth. In this case, be sure to check if adjustments and relines are also sponsored by your insurance. For cleaning materials, you will have to pay out of pocket.

You may also get reimbursement for some of the preparatory procedures, such as oral exams or tooth extraction. However, this way you can easily exceed your yearly maximum.

How to get affordable dentures near me?

Dentures are quite affordable as for teeth restoration, yet it’s still an expense of several thousands of dollars. Fortunately, it’s possible to save money without giving up the quality of the procedure.

The best way to do this is to find the right dentist near you who’s knowledgeable about prosthetics and has budget-friendly charges.

Authority Dental can help. They use their database of top-rated dentists to match you with the specialist that suits your needs. This service is completely free and available anytime. Check out this page for more information.

Questions & answers

Does Medicaid cover dentures?

It depends on the state. Each location chooses which procedures to cover. Contact your Medicaid department for details.

How much does it cost to get all your teeth pulled and get dentures?

The average price of tooth extractions is $200. Multiply it by the number of teeth that need to be removed and add the cost of the prosthesis. You are likely to need sedation, so count it in as well. Overall, for pulling out ten teeth and getting traditional dentures, be prepared to pay at least a $4,000 bill.

What is the cheapest way to get dentures?

Knowing that you will need multiple procedures to get dentures, consider joining a dental discount plan. You pay an annual fee, which works like a membership. Then, each time you visit an in-network dentist, you pay 10-60% less.

There are no yearly maximums or a limited number of visits, and the procedure doesn’t have to be medically necessary.

Dental implants are one of the biggest expenses that you can incur in the dental office. Prices may range from several to even tens of thousands of dollars.

And that’s not the final bill. There are some associated procedures that you need to take into account. On the other hand, your insurance or dental plan can help you save some money. How to navigate in this maze of costs?

Costs of dental implants explained

Dental implants cost per tooth may range from $3,500 up to $6,700 with an average of $4,800.

The price of full mouth implants depends on its type.

For a full set of removable implant-retained dentures, you’ll pay about $10,000, while for fixed full-mouth dental implants it’s approximately $21,000.

Please note that these are prices for a single arch, top or bottom.

Implants type	Average cost	Cost range
Single tooth implant	$4,800	$3,500-$6,700
Removable implant-retained dentures	$10,500	$8,000-$17,500
Fixed full-mouth dental implants	$21,500	$15,000-$28,000

The cost of a dental implant includes the price for the surgical placement of the implant body, abutment, and crown. The quality of these materials significantly influences the figure that you’ll pay.

It’s possible to cut on initial expenses by choosing prefabricated abutment instead of custom-made. However, that usually results in costly fixes in the future, and more money spent overall.

Another factor strongly affecting dental implant price is the location. Offices in big cities tend to charge more for placement and other procedures.

Additional costs during the implant procedure

There are several things that need to be done before placing an implant. The cost of associated procedures should be included in your implant budget. You may need:

• oral evaluation,
• dental x-rays,
• dental anesthesia,
• tooth extractions,
• bone grafting.

Oral evaluation

A dental exam is a foundation of more complicated procedures. A dentist will evaluate the condition of your mouth and help you to plan the next steps toward your new smile. This is a good moment to mention your past or current diseases and talk about your expectations. A cast of your mouth might be taken afterward.

Oral evaluation costs range from $50 to $200. On average, you’ll pay $100.

Dental x-rays

To safely install your new teeth, a dentist or oral surgeon will need the best possible insight into your mouth. X-rays allow inspecting internal structures, such as soft tissues, nerve pathways, and bone.

Panoramic x-rays cost $100 – $250. For cone-beam CT, which produces a 3D image, you will pay $150 – $750, usually about $300.

Dental anesthesia

Though local injection is included in the cost of a dental implant procedure, you are likely to need also deeper sedation. Since the whole process takes multiple appointments, you may require anesthesia on more than one occasion. It’s useful during tooth extractions, bone grafting, and finally, implant placement.

The prices can be as high as $250 for each 15-minute increment.

Tooth extractions

Sometimes it’s necessary to remove one or more teeth before placing an implant. Depending on the position and condition of a tooth, it can be a simple procedure or complicated oral surgery. Tooth extractions can radically impact your implant budget.

The cost of an easy removal ranges from $50 to $500, with an average of $200. For a complex extraction, you can pay even $1,100.

Bone grafting

Bone grafting serves to create a thicker space in the bone for the implant to sit in. It stabilizes the abutment and helps to prevent implant failure.

While it significantly decreases the risks, bone grafting has some cons. You may require hospitalization during this procedure. It adds a few months to the whole process, as you need to wait for your mouth to heal before implant placement.

The prices are also steep: they vary from $350 to $1,000. In most cases, you will pay about $650.

How to get affordable dental implants near me?

Getting an implant can put a lot of strain on your budget. The key to affordable restoration is the right specialist, who does an excellent job, which doesn’t need to be corrected after. Ideally, he or she also has a reasonable price-list, accepts your insurance, and preferred form of payment.

To find the professional perfect for you, you can use Authority Dental services. They offer a big database of dentists near you, all well-rated and budget-friendly. Just enter your preferences and make a dentist appointment with a chosen specialist.

The matching service is 100% free and available 24/7. Find more information on this page.

Questions & answers

Are dental implants covered by insurance?

Insurance companies usually don’t cover implants, which they regard as cosmetic surgery. If the teeth fell out before the policy was active, they can refuse to reimburse for any restoration on them.

However, insurance may help you cover the cost of some of the associated procedures. This should be the case with dental x-rays and tooth extractions. Still, you have to be wary of waiting periods, yearly maximums, and other limitations. Because of the insurance restrictions, getting an implant may take even several years.

If you plan to get a dental implant, purchasing a dental plan may be a good choice. You will pay up to 60% less each time you visit the office, regardless of the number of procedures that you need. There are no waiting periods or yearly maximums.

Why do implants cost so much?

Implants are considered the best method of replacing missing teeth. But setting them up is not an easy process. A dentist needs a lot of experience, skills, and precision. He or she also must be trained in administering anesthesia. Sometimes the presence of an anesthesiologist might be required.

The cost of materials raises the price, too. They have to be durable enough to stay with you for decades, and body-safe at the same time.

How to determine the exact cost of your dental implants?

The exact price of a dental implant is a very individual matter. It depends on many factors, such as your general health and the condition of your mouth. In the article, we listed average figures, to help you estimate the range of implant expense.

The best way to determine precise costs is to talk with a specialist about your case. Such consultation can be often found free of charge.