Dental Crown Cost with Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

Getting dental work done can be expensive, but it’s important for your health and well-being. If you need a dental crown, you may be wondering about its cost and whether your insurance will cover it. In this article, we will discuss dental crown cost with insurance, what impacts the price, and some frequently asked questions.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a “cap” that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It can also improve the appearance of your smile. Crowns can be made out of different materials including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and resin.

A dental crown is usually recommended when:

• You have a large cavity that cannot be filled with a filling
• Your tooth is cracked or broken
• Your tooth is weak or worn down due to grinding or erosion
• You have had a root canal and need to protect your tooth

Factors that Affect Dental Crown Cost

The cost of a dental crown can vary based on several factors, including:

Type of Material

The type of material used to make your crown can impact the cost. For example, porcelain crowns tend to be more expensive than metal or resin crowns.

Dental Provider

The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the location and experience of the dental provider. A specialist or a cosmetic dentist may charge more for the procedure than a general dentist.

Geographic Location

The cost of dental procedures can vary depending on where you live. The cost tends to be higher in urban areas than in rural areas.

Coverage by Insurance

The amount you will pay for a dental crown also depends on whether you have dental insurance coverage or not. We will discuss this in more detail in the next section.

Dental Crown Cost with Insurance

If you have dental insurance coverage, your insurance plan may cover some or all of the cost of a dental crown. However, the amount of coverage can vary depending on your plan and the type of crown you need.

Many dental insurance plans cover around 50% of the cost of a crown, but some plans may cover more or less than this. You should check with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage you have for dental crowns.

Keep in mind that your dental insurance may have a deductible or maximum coverage limit that you need to meet before your insurance will cover the cost of a crown. You should also check if your insurance plan has any waiting periods before you can receive coverage for certain procedures.

Dental Crown Cost without Insurance

If you do not have dental insurance coverage, the cost of a dental crown can be higher. The average cost of a dental crown in the United States is around $1,500-$2,500, but this can vary depending on the factors we discussed earlier.

If you are paying out of pocket for a crown, you should discuss the costs with your dental provider ahead of time. They can give you an estimate of the cost based on your specific needs and the type of crown you need.

FAQ

1. How long does a dental crown last?

A dental crown can last for 10-15 years or longer with proper care and maintenance. You should brush and floss regularly and avoid biting down on hard objects or using your teeth as tools.

2. Is getting a dental crown painful?

You may experience some discomfort or sensitivity after getting a dental crown, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Your dental provider may give you anesthesia or sedation to make the procedure more comfortable.

3. Can dental crowns be covered by medical insurance?

Usually, dental crowns are not covered by medical insurance. However, if you need a crown due to a medical condition such as jaw injury or cancer treatment, your medical insurance may cover some of the cost. You should check with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage you have.

4. How long does it take to get a dental crown?

The process of getting a dental crown usually takes two appointments. During the first appointment, your dental provider will prepare your tooth and take impressions. A temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth. The impressions will be sent to a dental lab to create your permanent crown. During the second appointment, your dental provider will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown in your mouth.

5. Are there any alternatives to dental crowns?

Depending on your specific dental needs, there may be alternatives to dental crowns. Your dental provider can discuss other options with you, such as fillings, inlays, onlays, or veneers.

Conclusion

When it comes to dental crown cost with insurance, the amount you will pay depends on your insurance coverage and the factors we discussed in this article. If you need a dental crown, it’s important to discuss the costs with your dental provider and your insurance provider to understand what your options are. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last for many years and improve your oral health and appearance.