How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?

The cost of a dental crown depends on the type of crown you need, the material it’s made from, and whether any additional treatment is required beforehand. As a general guide, dental crowns in the UK typically start at around £750 per tooth. Following a consultation, your dentist will be able to provide an accurate treatment plan and explain exactly what is included in the cost.

Although the price is often one of the first questions patients ask, it’s also important to consider the long-term value of treatment. Dental crowns do much more than improve the appearance of a damaged tooth—they restore its strength, protect what’s left of the natural tooth, and can help you avoid more extensive treatment in the future. The right type of crown will depend on factors such as the tooth’s location, your oral health, and your cosmetic goals.

In this guide, we’ll explain what affects the cost of a dental crown, when a crown is the most suitable treatment, and whether there are more affordable alternatives worth considering. By understanding your treatment options, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision about restoring your smile.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically used for the following purposes:

• Protect a weakened tooth (e.g., after a root canal treatment)
  Crowns are often used to cover and protect weaker teeth. The crown works to encapsulate the more vulnerable part of the tooth, which is above the gum line.
  
• Restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth
  If you have a tooth that is worn down, a crown can help protect it. The crown helps prevent fractures or cracks that broken or worn-down teeth may be more susceptible to.

• Cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t much of the original tooth left.
  
• Hold a dental bridge in place
  A dental bridge involves having crowns fitted over nearby teeth to securely hold the bridge.
  
• Cover misshapen or severely discoloured teeth
  Dental crowns shouldn’t be considered the initial fix to issues such as misshapen or slightly discoloured teeth. However, if you have exhausted all other options (such as porcelain veneers) a dental crown may be the ideal option.
  
• Cover a dental implant
  A crown can also be fitted on top of a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. Fitting a crown involves shaping the affected tooth to make room for the crown, taking an impression of the tooth, and then placing a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made. Once ready, the permanent crown is cemented onto the tooth.

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?

The cost of a dental crown in the UK typically starts from around £750 per tooth. However, several factors can influence the final price, such as the type of material used.

• Porcelain Crowns: These are popular for their natural appearance and are therefore often used for front teeth. Porcelain is semi-translucent, similar to natural teeth – hence why it’s one of the more popular crown materials.
  
• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth and can be a bit pricier than porcelain.
  
• Metal Crowns (with precious metals): These crowns are very strong and long-lasting, though may be considered less aesthetically pleasing. They’re often used for molars as they can’t easily be seen in these areas.

These prices are just a guide. If there’s any need for preparatory work, such as fillings, root canal treatments, or the use of a post to support the crown, the costs may increase. Prices can also vary depending on the dental practice and its location. It’s always worth making a consultation appointment with your dentist to determine an accurate cost.

Is it Worth Getting a Dental Crown?

Considering a dental crown can be difficult. You might not feel that it’s worth the investment, or the time commitment involved in maintaining it. The overarching feedback we get from patients, however, is that dental crowns are worth it. Here’s what they can offer:

• Restored function of the affected tooth – A dental crown can completely restore the function of teeth, particularly in those areas where chewing and biting is essential.
  
• Protecting other teeth – Not having a crown fitted in some areas may lead to other teeth being compromised as they tend to absorb unnecessary (and unexpected) forces.
  
• Enhanced appearance – If teeth requiring crowns are visible, many will understandably feel uncomfortable with their appearance or smiles. This can have a detrimental effect in terms of daily and social life.
  
• A confidence boost – A well-fitted and maintained crown can boost confidence in ways you wouldn’t expect. If you have suffered with a difficult tooth for a while, a crown might be the answer you’re looking for.
  
• Durability and longevity – If they are maintained and cared for well, dental crowns can last for anywhere between 10 – 15 years. One of the ways to ensure the longevity of a crown is to follow all your dentist’s recommendations and keep on track with appointments.

READ MORE: What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Crowns?

Are There More Affordable Alternatives?

Some patients may find there are more affordable alternatives that work just as well for them as dental crowns would. We’ve outlined some of the key alternatives you could consider with your dentist below.

Fillings are suitable for smaller areas of decay or damage. Fillings are usually recommended by dentists when the structural integrity of the tooth can be repaired or built upon.

Inlays are used when the damage is too extensive for a filling, but not severe enough for a crown. Inlays and onlays are made from porcelain or composite resin and are less invasive than crowns.

It is always worth discussing your options, including those that may be more affordable, with your dentist. They are there to help you – and should be willing to give their professional advice in an impartial manner.

Affordable Dental Crowns with Ringway Dental

At Ringway Dental, we offer high-quality dental crowns at competitive prices. As a team, we have worked to create a welcoming and caring atmosphere within our Cheadle surgery. This is something we take great pride in! If you are at all unsure about whether certain cosmetic or dental treatments would work for you, we’re here to help.

If you are interested in dental crowns in Manchester, Ringway Dental might be just what you’re looking for. Call our team on 0161 437 2029 to book an appointment with us, or contact us online.

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