Dental Crown Cost in Australia: What to Expect and Why It’s Worth It

A dental crown is a lasting solution for restoring and protecting a damaged tooth, particularly when fillings aren’t enough. Whether it’s a fractured tooth, a broken tooth, or a severely decayed tooth, a crown helps reinforce the remaining tooth structure, restoring both function and aesthetics. However, one of the biggest concerns for patients is the dental crown cost. With so many options available, how much should you expect to pay? The dental crown cost depends on several factors, including the material used, the complexity of the dental crown procedure, and the dental clinic you visit. This guide explores the dental crown treatment process, types of crowns, pricing, and what factors influence the cost.

What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-like cap placed over a natural tooth or a dental implant to restore its strength, function, and appearance. It fully encases the existing tooth, protecting it from further damage while improving its aesthetics. Crowns are customised to match the size, shape, and colour of your surrounding normal teeth, ensuring a seamless look.

Why You Need a Dental Crown: The Key Benefits of Restoring Your Smile

A dental crown is more than just a tooth-like cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It is a long-term solution that restores function, improves aesthetics, and protects your oral health. If you have a cracked tooth, broken tooth, or severe tooth decay, a dental crown treatment might be the best option to save and strengthen your existing tooth.

Here are the major benefits of getting a dental crown and why it might be the right choice for you.

1. Restores and Strengthens Weak or Damaged Teeth

A dental crown solution is designed to reinforce compromised teeth that have been affected by large fillings, severe decay, or fractures. Without proper protection, these teeth may deteriorate further, leading to painful conditions or even tooth removal. A custom-made cap strengthens the remaining tooth structure, enabling you to chew and bite confidently.

2. Protects a Tooth After Root Canal Therapy

If you have had a root canal treatment, your tooth is left more fragile and prone to fractures. A permanent dental crown provides the necessary support, sealing and protecting the treated tooth from further damage or infection. Without a crown, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy may eventually break, leading to the need for tooth removal.

3. Enhances the Appearance of Your Smile

A dental crown is not just about function—it also improves the aesthetics of your teeth. Whether you have a discoloured, misshapen, or severely worn-down tooth, a porcelain crown, zirconia crown, or ceramic crown can restore your healthy smile. Many patients opt for crowns to achieve a tooth-coloured restoration that blends seamlessly with their natural teeth.

4. Replaces Missing Teeth with a Dental Implant or Bridge

A dental implant requires a final crown to complete the restoration and function as a replacement for a missing tooth. Crowns are also used as anchors in a dental bridge, filling gaps left by missing teeth and preventing surrounding normal teeth from shifting. These restorations improve both function and appearance, restoring your ability to eat and speak properly.

5. Protects Teeth with Large Fillings from Breaking

Teeth with large fillings are more likely to crack, especially when subjected to constant pressure from chewing. A dental crown procedure helps by encasing and stabilising the remaining tooth structure, preventing fractures and prolonging the life of the tooth. This is especially important for back teeth, which endure the most pressure during daily activities.

6. Provides Long-Lasting Durability

The lifespan of a dental crown varies based on the material used, typically lasting between 10 to 20 years or longer with proper maintenance. Gold crowns, zirconia crowns, and porcelain fused to metal crowns are highly durable, making them a reliable long-term choice for preserving oral health.

7. Improves Comfort and Functionality

A compromised tooth can make everyday tasks like eating and speaking uncomfortable. A dental crown solution restores full function, allowing you to chew without discomfort and speak clearly. Because crowns are custom-made, they fit naturally within your bite, preventing further strain on other teeth.

8. Prevents Further Tooth Decay and Damage

A decayed tooth can worsen if left untreated, leading to severe tooth decay that may require extraction. A permanent crown acts as a shield, covering the underlying tooth and preventing bacteria from causing further deterioration. This not only saves your natural tooth but also reduces the risk of needing more invasive dental treatments in the future.

9. Helps Maintain a Balanced and Healthy Bite

When a tooth is missing or compromised, it can impact how your teeth come together when you bite. This can lead to uneven pressure on other teeth, causing additional wear or discomfort. A dental crown helps maintain a balanced bite, reducing strain on surrounding teeth and preventing further oral health issues.

Should You Get a Dental Crown?

If you have a damaged tooth, fractured tooth, severe decay, or a missing tooth, a dental crown treatment may be the best way to restore and protect your oral health. Whether it is part of a dental implant, dental bridge, or root canal therapy, crowns provide durability, function, and a natural look that blends with your healthy smile.

Consult your dentist to discuss whether a dental crown solution is right for you and explore the best options for restoring your tooth structure and overall dental well-being.

How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost in Australia?

The cost of dental crowns in Australia varies based on the material, location, and complexity of the case. On average, here are the starting prices:

• Porcelain crowns – From $1,500 per tooth
• Zirconia crowns – From $1,800 per tooth
• Gold crowns – From $2,000 per tooth
• Resin crowns – From $600 per tooth
• Porcelain fused to metal crowns – From $1,200 per tooth

Additional dental treatments such as root canal therapy or gum disease management may increase the final cost.

Types of Dental Crowns: Choosing the Best Option for Your Needs

When considering dental crown solutions, selecting the right type of crown is crucial for long-term durability, comfort, and aesthetics. Every type of permanent dental crown comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, influenced by factors such as the tooth’s position, the durability of the material, and the overall expense of the treatment.

Here is a breakdown of the most common dental crown treatment options, their key features, and what makes them suitable for different dental needs.

1. Porcelain Crowns – The Most Natural Looking Option

• Best for: Front teeth and cosmetic restorations
• Appearance: Highly aesthetic, closely resembles natural teeth
• Durability: Moderate strength, may not be ideal for heavy bite pressure
• Sensitivity: Can feel sensitive to extreme temperatures if the underlying tooth is exposed
• Longevity: Lasts several years but can chip if not cared for properly

Porcelain crowns are a great choice for visible front teeth, as they blend seamlessly with normal teeth. However, they may not be as strong as metal-based crowns, making them less ideal for back teeth.

2. Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns – A Balance of Strength and Aesthetics

• Best for: Back teeth and general restorations
• Appearance: Aesthetic but with a potential for metal visibility near the gum line over time
• Durability: Stronger than all-porcelain crowns, thanks to the metal base
• Tooth Preservation: Requires more removal of tooth structure than zirconia or gold crowns
• Longevity: Long-lasting but can wear down surrounding other teeth if the surface becomes rough

PFM crowns offer a combination of porcelain materials for aesthetics and metal for durability, making them an ideal choice for balancing function and appearance.

3. Zirconia Crowns – The Strongest Tooth-Coloured Option

• Best for: Back teeth, dental bridges, and patients who grind their teeth
• Appearance: Tooth-coloured but may appear more opaque than porcelain
• Durability: Extremely strong, resistant to fractures and wear
• Tooth Wear: Can be hard on opposing normal teeth due to its toughness
• Longevity: One of the longest-lasting dental restorations, requiring minimal maintenance

Zirconia crowns are excellent for compromised teeth that need superior strength. While they are tooth-coloured, they may not always look as natural as full porcelain crowns.

4. Gold Crowns – The Most Durable and Long-Lasting Choice

• Best for: Back teeth, patients with heavy bite pressure, and those prone to grinding
• Appearance: Highly noticeable due to its metallic colour
• Durability: Extremely resistant to fractures, making it a great choice for weak teeth
• Tooth Preservation: Requires less removal of tooth structure than ceramic options
• Longevity: Lasts decades with proper care

Gold crowns are the most durable choice but are rarely used for front teeth due to their noticeable appearance. They are an excellent option for those prioritising function over aesthetics.

5. Resin Crowns – A Budget-Friendly Alternative

• Best for: Temporary crowns or cost-effective solutions for minor damage
• Appearance: Can be tooth-coloured but lacks the natural shine of porcelain
• Durability: Prone to wear and staining, making it less ideal for long-term use
• Tooth Protection: Provides a protective tooth-like cap but wears down faster than other materials
• Longevity: Short-term use, often used before placing a permanent crown

Resin crowns are a good option for those needing cheap dental crowns or a temporary crown while waiting for a final restoration.

6. All-Metal Crowns (Including Fused to Metal Crowns) – Maximum Strength for High Bite Pressure

• Best for: Back teeth where strength is more important than aesthetics
• Appearance: Metallic, does not blend with natural teeth
• Durability: Highly fracture-resistant, making it a good choice for heavily damaged existing teeth
• Tooth Wear: Gentle on opposing teeth, unlike zirconia crowns
• Longevity: Can last decades without significant wear

These crowns are commonly used when the priority is functionality and longevity, particularly for molars and dental bridges.

 

 

Which Dental Crown is Right for You?

The best dental crown solution depends on several factors, including:

• The location of the treated tooth (front or back teeth)
• The level of durability needed (for weak teeth, large fillings, or severe tooth decay)
• Aesthetic preferences (whether you prefer tooth-coloured restorations)
• Budget considerations (options for cheap dental crowns)

Consulting with a dentist will help you identify the most appropriate dental crown treatment to restore your healthy smile while preserving the integrity of your tooth structure.

Factors That Influence Dental Crown Cost

Several key factors affect the dental crown cost:

1. Material Used: The price of ceramic crowns, zirconia crowns, and all-metal crowns varies significantly.
2. Dental Laboratory Fees: A custom-made cap created in a dental laboratory affects the final price.
3. Complexity of the Case: If root canal therapy or tooth removal is required, the total cost increases.
4. Location: Prices differ across clinics, with dental crowns in Brisbane potentially costing more than regional areas.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

The dental crown procedure generally takes two visits:

Step 1: Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown

• The underlying tooth is reshaped to fit the permanent crown.
• Impressions are taken for a custom-made cap made in a dental lab.
• A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.

Step 2: Placement of the Permanent Crown

• The final crown is bonded onto the treated tooth.
• Adjustments ensure a natural bite and appearance.

Can You Whiten Dental Crowns?

Unlike normal teeth, dental crowns do not respond to teeth whitening. If you’re considering a front teeth crown, it’s best to whiten your teeth before getting a new crown to ensure a perfect match.

Dental Crown Alternatives: Exploring Your Options

If you’re not sure about getting a single dental crown, here are some alternative dental restorations:

• Dental bridge: Best for missing teeth
• Veneers: Suitable for minor aesthetic issues
• Large fillings: For less severe damage
• Dental implant: A long-term solution for tooth loss

Final Thoughts: Is a Dental Crown Worth It?

A permanent dental crown is a smart investment in your oral health, helping to protect weak teeth and restore function. While cheap dental crowns exist, prioritising quality and durability ensures long-term benefits.

If you have a decayed tooth, a fractured tooth, or a missing tooth, consulting a dentist will help you determine the best dental crown solution for your healthy smile.

Looking for expert advice? Book a consultation with Dental Health Centre at (07) 3848 8002 to discuss the right type of dental crown treatment to suit your needs.

 

References

Colgate. (n.d.). Dental impressions: What to expect. Colgate Oral Health. Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bridges-and-crowns/dental-impressions-what-to-expect

WebMD. (n.d.). Dental crowns. WebMD. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-crowns

National Health Service (NHS). (n.d.). Teeth whitening. NHS. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/teeth-whitening/

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Root canal. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21759-root-canal

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Cavities: Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892