Dental Crown Cost in Australia

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are essential in dental restoration, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. 

Why You Might Need a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are versatile restorations used to address various dental issues. Here are some common reasons why you might need a dental crown:

1. Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed and a filling isn’t sufficient, a crown can provide the necessary strength and protection.
2. Cracked or Broken Teeth: Crowns can hold together parts of a cracked tooth or restore a broken tooth to its normal shape and function.
3. After Root Canal Treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are often left weak and prone to fracture. A crown provides the needed reinforcement.
4. Large Fillings: When a tooth has a large filling and not much natural tooth structure remains, a crown can support and protect the tooth.
5. Cosmetic Improvements: Crowns can improve the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth, enhancing your smile, especially if you don’t want to opt for professional teeth whitening.
6. Worn Down Teeth: Teeth that have been worn down due to grinding (bruxism) or other factors can be restored and protected with crowns.

Suggested Reading: What Is A Root Canal? And Do I Need One?

Keep your teeth looking their best with regular dental check-ups. Schedule an appointment at our Browns Plains Dental Clinic today and maintain a healthy smile.

Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

Appearance: These crowns are known for their natural look and are often used for front teeth. They are designed to match the colour and translucency of natural teeth.

Durability: While aesthetically pleasing, porcelain crowns can be less durable than other materials and may be prone to chipping or cracking under heavy biting forces.

Metal Crowns

Appearance: These crowns, made from metals like gold or platinum, are highly durable but less aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic colour.

Durability: Metal crowns are incredibly strong and resistant to wear, making them ideal for molars that endure heavy chewing forces.

Ceramic Crowns

Appearance: Similar to porcelain, ceramic crowns offer a natural appearance and are often used for front teeth. They are slightly more durable than porcelain.

Durability: These crowns provide a good balance between aesthetics and strength, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.

Zirconia Crowns

Appearance: Zirconia crowns are highly durable and offer a natural appearance. They can be layered with porcelain to enhance their aesthetic appeal.

Durability: Known for their strength, zirconia crowns are resistant to cracking and chipping, making them a popular choice for both front and back teeth.

Purpose of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns serve several important functions, including:

• Restoring Functionality: Crowns restore the normal function of a tooth, allowing for proper chewing and speaking.
• Enhancing Aesthetics: Crowns improve the appearance of a damaged or discoloured tooth, providing a more uniform and attractive smile.
• Protecting Weak Teeth: Crowns provide a protective cover for weak or decayed teeth, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss.
• Supporting Dental Work: Crowns are often used to cap teeth after root canal treatment or to support dental bridges and implants.

Understanding the different types and purposes of dental crowns helps in making an informed decision about the best option for your dental needs. In the next section, we’ll delve into the factors that affect the cost of dental crowns.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental Crowns

The cost of dental crowns in Australia varies based on several factors. Understanding these elements can help you anticipate and plan for the financial aspects of your treatment:

1. Material Used

• Porcelain Crowns: These are more expensive due to their aesthetic appeal and natural appearance. They are ideal for front teeth.
• Metal Crowns: Typically less expensive, these crowns are durable and ideal for molars but less aesthetically pleasing.
• Ceramic Crowns: Offer a balance between aesthetics and strength, making them a mid-range option.
• Zirconia Crowns: Known for their durability and natural look, these crowns are generally among the more expensive options.

2. Complexity of the Procedure

• Tooth Preparation: The amount of preparation needed for the tooth can affect the cost. More complex cases may require additional work, such as building up the tooth structure before placing the crown.
• Additional Treatments: Procedures like root canals or fillings required before placing the crown can add to the overall cost.

3. Geographic Location

• Urban vs. Rural: Dental practices in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne may charge more than those in rural areas due to higher operating costs.
• Regional Variations: Costs can vary between different regions within Australia based on local economic factors and demand for dental services.

4. Dentist’s Experience and Specialisation

• Experience: Dentists with extensive experience or those who specialise in cosmetic dentistry may charge higher fees for their expertise and advanced skills.
• Reputation: Highly reputable clinics that offer premium services may also have higher costs associated with their treatments.

5. Laboratory Fees

• Custom Fabrication: Crowns are custom-made in dental laboratories, and the fees charged by these labs can influence the total cost. High-quality materials and precision work can increase the price.
• Location of Lab: Whether the dental lab is local or overseas can also impact costs. Local labs often charge more but offer quicker turnaround times and higher quality control.

6. Type of Crown

• Permanent vs. Temporary: Temporary crowns, used while waiting for permanent crowns, can add to the overall cost.
• Custom vs. Prefabricated: Custom crowns designed specifically for your tooth may cost more than prefabricated options.

Understanding these factors provides a clearer picture of why dental crown costs can vary and helps you make a more informed decision when planning your dental treatment. Next, we will explore the average cost of different types of dental crowns in Australia.

Average Cost of Dental Crowns in Australia

The cost of dental crowns in Australia can vary significantly depending on the type of crown and other influencing factors. Here’s a general breakdown of the average costs for different types of dental crowns in 2024:

Porcelain Crowns

• Cost Range: $1,200 to $2,100
• Details: Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance, making them a popular choice for front teeth. They mimic the translucency and colour of natural teeth but can be more fragile and prone to chipping.

Metal Crowns

• Cost Range: $1,800 to $4700
• Details: Metal crowns, including gold and other metal alloys, are highly durable and resistant to wear. They are ideal for molars that endure heavy chewing but are less aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic colour.

Porcelain-fused-to-Metal Crowns:

• Cost Range: $1,700 and $2,500
• Details: Comprised of metal alloy and porcelain material, these combine aesthetics and strength.

Ceramic Crowns

• Cost Range: $1,500 to $1,800
• Details: Ceramic crowns offer a natural appearance similar to porcelain crowns but with added durability. They are suitable for both front and back teeth, providing a good balance between aesthetics and strength.

Zirconia Crowns

• Cost Range: $1,000 to $2,500
• Details: Zirconia crowns are extremely durable and offer excellent aesthetic results. They are resistant to chipping and cracking, making them a top choice for both front and back teeth.

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the breakdown of costs can help you prepare financially for your dental crown procedure:

1. Initial Consultation: An initial consultation fee, ranging from $50 to $200, is required to assess the tooth and plan the treatment.
2. X-Rays and Diagnostics: Necessary imaging and diagnostic tests to evaluate the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures, typically costing between $30 and $200. The price depends on whether you need intra-oral or extra-oral x-ray.
3. Tooth Preparation and Impression Taking: The process of preparing the tooth and taking impressions can range from $150 to $300.
4. Crown Fabrication: The cost for fabricating the crown in a dental laboratory, which varies based on the material used and the complexity of the case, generally ranges from $1000 to $1,500.
5. Placement and Follow-Up Visits: The actual placement of the crown and any necessary follow-up visits to ensure proper fit and function, which may add $200 to $500 to the total cost.

These average costs provide a comprehensive overview of what you might expect to pay for different types of dental crowns in Australia. Understanding these figures helps you budget accordingly and discuss potential payment options with your dental provider.

Insurance Coverage and Payment Options

Navigating the financial aspects of dental crown treatment includes understanding your insurance coverage and available payment options:

Insurance Coverage

• Dental Insurance: Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns, especially if they are deemed medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. Coverage typically ranges from 50% to 80% of the cost, depending on the plan.

Payment Plans and Financing

• In-House Payment Plans: Many dental clinics offer in-house payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of the crown over several months, making it more affordable.
• Third-Party Financing: Some dental financing services offer low or no-interest financing plans for dental treatments, including crowns. These plans can help you manage costs by offering flexible payment options.
• Credit Card Payments: Using a credit card with a low interest rate can be a convenient way to finance dental crowns. Some credit cards offer promotional periods with no interest, which can be beneficial if you plan to pay off the balance quickly.

By understanding insurance coverage and exploring payment options, you can better manage the financial aspect of getting a dental crown. Discuss these options with your dentist to find the best solution for your needs.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer numerous benefits that can significantly improve both the function and appearance of your teeth:

1. Restoring Tooth Function and Appearance

Crowns restore the shape, size, and strength of a damaged tooth, allowing you to chew and speak properly. They also enhance the appearance of your smile by covering discoloured or misshapen teeth.

2. Protecting Damaged Teeth

Crowns provide a protective cover for weak or decayed teeth, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss. They also help hold together parts of a cracked tooth, ensuring its stability.

3. Long-Term Durability and Aesthetics

High-quality crowns made from materials like zirconia and porcelain are durable and can last many years with proper care. They are also designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

4. Supporting Dental Work

Crowns are often used to cap teeth after root canal treatment or to support dental bridges and implants, ensuring the longevity and success of these procedures.

Understanding the benefits of dental crowns helps in appreciating their value and the investment in your oral health. In the next section, we will discuss how to choose the right type of crown for your needs.

How to Choose the Right Type of Dental Crown

Selecting the appropriate type of dental crown depends on several factors, including your dental needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Porcelain Crowns

Best For: Front teeth where aesthetics are crucial.

Advantages: Natural look and colour, good for visible areas.

Considerations: Less durable than other materials, higher risk of chipping.

2. Metal Crowns

Best For: Molars and teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.

Advantages: Extremely durable, resistant to wear.

Considerations: Metallic colour makes them less aesthetically pleasing.

3. Ceramic Crowns

Best For: Both front and back teeth where appearance and strength are important.

Advantages: Good aesthetics, more durable than porcelain.

Considerations: More expensive than metal crowns, but less than zirconia.

4. Zirconia Crowns

Best For: Any tooth, especially for those who want a combination of strength and aesthetics.

Advantages: Very strong, natural appearance, highly resistant to chipping.

Considerations: Higher cost due to material and fabrication process.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crown:

• Aesthetic Requirements: If the crown will be visible when you smile, materials like porcelain or ceramic that mimic the appearance of natural teeth may be preferred.

• Functional Needs: For teeth that require significant strength and durability, such as molars, metal or zirconia crowns are often more suitable.

• Cost Considerations: Balance your budget with your needs. While zirconia and porcelain crowns offer great aesthetics, they are more expensive. Metal crowns, although less visually appealing, provide a cost-effective solution for back teeth.

• Allergies and Sensitivities: Some patients may have allergies to certain metals used in metal crowns. In such cases, non-metal options like ceramic or zirconia are better choices.

• Longevity and Maintenance: Consider how long the crown is expected to last and what kind of maintenance it will require. Zirconia crowns, for example, offer long-term durability with minimal maintenance.

Discussing these factors with your dentist can help you choose the right crown that meets your functional needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget. By understanding the options and their benefits, you can make an informed decision that ensures the best outcome for your dental health.

Crowns and Bridges at Dental Aspects

At Dental Aspects, we specialise in providing high-quality crowns and bridges to restore your smile and improve oral functionality. Our team uses advanced materials and techniques to ensure durable and aesthetically pleasing results. Crowns are ideal for covering damaged or decayed teeth, while bridges effectively replace missing teeth, preventing shifting and maintaining proper bite alignment. We customise each treatment plan to meet your specific needs, ensuring comfort and longevity.

For more detailed information and to schedule a consultation, visit our Crowns and Bridges page.

Keep Reading: Root Canal Vs Extraction: How & When To Choose