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

Dental crowns are a popular and effective solution for restoring the health, strength, and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth. However, one common question patients often ask is, “How much does a dental crown cost?” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about dental crown costs, types of crowns, and what affects their pricing. Whether you’re considering a porcelain crown for your front teeth or a metal crown for your back teeth, this article has you covered.

What Are Dental Crowns, and Why Are They Needed?

A dental crown is a custom-tailored cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or weak tooth to restore its strength, functionality, and appearance. Crowns are usually used after root canal therapy when the natural tooth structure needs reinforcement or to restore a lost tooth using a dental implant.

Crowns provide a natural appearance, protect weakened teeth, and improve overall oral health. They’re also ideal for managing a wide range of dental issues, and offer solutions to a variety of dental challenges:

• Tooth Decay: Crowns prevent further decay and restore damaged teeth.
• Discoloured Teeth: Porcelain crowns can cover stains, enhancing your aesthetic appeal.
• Misshapen Teeth: Crowns reshape and resize teeth for a more balanced smile.
• Dental Implants: Crowns are the finishing touch for replacing missing teeth.
• Root Canal Therapy: After a root canal, crowns protect the weakened tooth from future damage.

Types of Dental Crowns: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing the right crown depends on factors like the tooth’s location, budget, and desired aesthetic appeal. Here are the common types of dental crowns:

Porcelain Crowns

Known for their natural-looking smile, porcelain crowns are ideal for front teeth as they blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. The starting price for porcelain crowns is approximately $1,000.

Ceramic Crowns

Ceramic crowns offer a similar aesthetic to porcelain but are often used for patients with metal allergies with starting prices near $1,200.

Metal Crowns

These include all metal crowns and porcelain fused to metal crowns. They’re durable and great for back teeth, where strength is prioritised over appearance. The starting price for metal crowns is around $1,000

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are a modern option, combining strength with a more natural appearance. They’re an excellent choice for both front and back teeth, they start at approximately $1,500.

Resin Crowns

Resin crowns are a cost-effective option, though they are less durable compared to other types. They are commonly utilised as temporary crowns during the dental crown process. The starting price for resin crowns is approximately $500.

What Influences the Cost of Dental Crowns?

The cost of dental crowns varies significantly depending on several factors:

Type of Crown Material

• Porcelain crowns and zirconia crowns typically cost more due to their aesthetic and functional advantages.
• Metal crowns and fused-to-metal crowns are often more affordable but prioritise durability over aesthetics.

Tooth Location

Crowns for back teeth may cost less than those for front teeth, as the latter often require higher precision and aesthetic consideration.

Dental Clinic and Expertise

The reputation of the dental clinic, the quality of the dental laboratory, and the dentist’s experience play a significant role in the overall cost.

Health Insurance and Payment Plans

Some health funds may partially cover the dental fees, especially if the crown is medically necessary. Many clinics also offer payment plans for high-quality treatment.

What’s the Average Dental Crown Cost in Australia?

The dental crown cost in Australia can start from $1,000 per single crown. The cost includes the dentist’s expertise, materials, and services like consultations, impressions, and fitting.

For more complex procedures like crowns following root canal treatment or those combined with a dental bridge, the price can increase. Discussing your treatment options and budget during your initial consultation can help clarify the overall cost.

Why Invest in High-Quality Crowns?

High-quality crowns offer benefits that make them worth the investment:

• Long-lasting durability
• Enhanced aesthetic appeal
• Improved dental health
• A natural-looking smile
• Opting for high-quality materials like zirconia crowns or porcelain fused to metal ensures both functionality and beauty.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the steps involved in getting a dental crown can help ease any concerns and prepare you for the process. Whether you’re addressing a damaged tooth or enhancing your smile, the dental crown procedure is a straightforward treatment designed to restore both function and aesthetics. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect during each stage of the procedure.

Initial Consultation

Your dentist will assess your oral health, discuss the condition of your damaged tooth, and recommend suitable treatment options.

Preparation of the Tooth

The prepared tooth is shaped to fit the crown. If you’ve undergone root canal therapy, this step reinforces the tooth’s strength.

Impressions and Temporary Crown

Your dentist takes impressions, often sent to a dental laboratory, to craft your custom-made cap. A temporary crown may be fitted to shield the tooth.

Placement of the Final Crown

Once the dental lab creates your high-quality crown, your dentist will cement it onto the tooth, ensuring a perfect fit and natural appearance.

Post-Crown Care and Maintenance Tips

Once your crown is in place, proper care ensures its longevity:

1. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss to prevent plaque buildup around the crown.
2. Avoid Hard Foods: Excessive force on crowns can lead to cracks or dislodgement.
3. Regular Dental Visits: Schedule check-ups to monitor the crown’s condition and the health of the underlying tooth.

These habits not only protect your crown but also support your overall oral health, ensuring your natural-looking smile stays intact.

How Can You Afford Crowns? Exploring Flexible Payment and Financing Options

Accessing quality dental care is essential, and there are several flexible payment options available to help make treatments more affordable and accessible. From interest-free payment plans to government-supported schemes, these options cater to a variety of financial situations, ensuring everyone can prioritise their oral health.

Interest-Free Payment Plans

For those seeking an affordable way to manage dental treatment costs, interest-free payment plans are a popular choice. These plans enable you to spread the cost of your treatment over weekly, fortnightly, or monthly instalments, helping you get the care you need without upfront financial stress. Providers such as ZipMoney and Afterpay are commonly used, enabling you to enjoy a flexible repayment schedule.

To set up a payment plan, it’s advisable to complete the necessary paperwork before booking your appointment to ensure a smooth process.

Private Health Funds and On-the-Spot Claims

Patients with private health insurance can take advantage of efficient claims processing using the HICAPS system. This system allows you to claim health fund rebates directly at the dental clinic, eliminating the need to handle receipts and submit claims manually. Many health funds are supported, and clinics often partner with leading insurers to offer additional benefits through preferred provider programs.

Even without private insurance, you can expect high-quality care and transparent discussions about treatment costs and available payment options.

Government-Supported Dental Schemes: Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule provides financial support for essential dental services for eligible children aged 2–17 years. The scheme covers preventive and restorative treatments up to $1,026 over a two-year period. Eligibility is typically tied to government benefits like the Family Tax Benefit Part A. If you’re uncertain about eligibility, the dental team can assist in checking your status.

Support for Veterans

Patients holding a Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) card may be eligible for specific dental benefits. Simply present your DVA card during your visit to access the care you’re entitled to.

Workplace Injury Claims

For individuals needing dental treatment as part of a workplace injury claim, it’s essential to coordinate the necessary paperwork with your employer beforehand. This ensures a seamless process when seeking treatment.

 

 

Why Dental Crowns Are Essential for Your Oral Health

Dental crowns play a crucial role in preserving and enhancing oral health. By capping a damaged tooth, they provide structural support and protection, ensuring the tooth remains functional. Without a crown, a weakened tooth is vulnerable to further damage, decay, or even loss. Crowns act as a safeguard, especially for teeth that have undergone extensive procedures like root canal therapy.

Additionally, dental crowns help maintain the natural appearance of teeth, blending seamlessly to restore a healthy smile. They prevent shifting of adjacent teeth, preserving the alignment of your bite and overall dental function. This dual benefit of protection and aesthetics underscores why crowns are a vital part of modern dental care.

Comparing Dental Crowns and Other Dental Treatments

When considering restorative or cosmetic dental options, it’s important to weigh the benefits of dental crowns against alternatives like veneers, fillings, and dental bridges:

• Veneers vs. Crowns: While veneers are thin coverings placed on the front surface of teeth to improve aesthetics, crowns encase the entire tooth. Crowns are preferred for more severe cases of tooth decay, misshapen teeth, or after a root canal treatment.
• Fillings vs. Crowns: Fillings are used to repair small cavities or cracks, while crowns are ideal for larger restorations where the tooth structure needs reinforcement.
• Dental Bridges vs. Crowns: Crowns are used individually or as part of a dental bridge to replace missing teeth. In this case, crowns anchor the bridge securely.

A crown is the best option when tooth structure needs significant reinforcement or when both function and aesthetics are priorities.

Customisation and Design Process in Dental Labs

The journey to a perfect crown begins in a dental laboratory, where modern technology ensures precision and quality. After your dentist takes a detailed impression of the prepared tooth, the lab creates a custom-made cap tailored to your unique needs. Advanced techniques, such as digital impressions and 3D imaging, ensure a natural appearance and an exact fit.

High-quality crowns are crafted from materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal, depending on the treatment plan. This meticulous process guarantees not only functionality but also a crown that enhances your aesthetic appeal and supports long-term dental health.

The Role of Temporary Crowns

While waiting for the final crown, your dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. These temporary restorations safeguard the tooth from damage or sensitivity and maintain its position within the dental arch.

Care for a temporary crown includes:

• Avoiding sticky or hard foods that may dislodge it.
• Practising gentle brushing and flossing around the area.
• Scheduling prompt follow-ups to replace it with the permanent crown.

Temporary crowns play an essential role in ensuring a smooth transition to the final crown while preserving your oral health.

Risks and Limitations of Dental Crowns

While crowns are effective, there are potential risks to consider:

• Loosening or Falling Off: Improper care can cause crowns to dislodge.
• Sensitivity: Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after placement.
• Cracks or Wear: Although durable, crowns can crack under excessive pressure.

Choosing high-quality crowns and a skilled dental clinic reduces these risks. Regular maintenance and adherence to your dentist’s advice ensure the longevity of your crown.

Common Questions About Dental Crowns

What happens if my crown falls off?

If your crown becomes loose or falls off, contact your dentist immediately. In most cases, the crown can be re-cemented if the tooth underneath is still intact.

Do dental crowns require special care?

Caring for dental crowns is similar to maintaining natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss regularly, and avoid biting hard objects to prevent damage. Regular dental visits are also essential.

Can I replace an old crown with a new one?

Yes, dental crowns can be replaced if they become worn, damaged, or no longer fit correctly. Your dentist will evaluate both the crown and the underlying tooth to determine if a replacement is necessary.

How long does the dental crown procedure take?

The process usually requires two visits to the dentist. The first visit involves tooth preparation and impressions, while the second visit involves fitting and securely attaching the permanent crown.

Are dental crowns painful to get?

The procedure is typically comfortable, as local anaesthesia is used during tooth preparation. Some patients may experience minor discomfort after the procedure, which usually subsides within a few days.

Are dental crowns an option for cosmetic purposes?

Absolutely! Dental crowns are frequently used to boost the appearance of teeth by covering discoloured, misshapen, or damaged teeth, resulting in a more appealing smile.

What are the most durable types of crowns?

Metal crowns and zirconia crowns are the most durable, making them ideal for back teeth where strength is critical. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are less durable but offer better aesthetics, making them suitable for front teeth.

Can I whiten a dental crown?

No, dental crowns cannot be whitened. If your crown no longer matches your natural teeth due to teeth whitening, your dentist may recommend replacing the crown to match the new shade.

Are crowns suitable for children?

In some cases, crowns are used for children to restore decayed or damaged teeth, especially if the primary tooth is critical for maintaining proper spacing for adult teeth.

Can a Crown Repair a Decayed Tooth?

Yes! Crowns are ideal for restoring decayed teeth, protecting the tooth structure, and preventing further tooth decay.

How Long Do Crowns Last?

With proper dental care, crowns can last 10-15 years or longer. Regular dental visits and maintaining good hygiene are key to their longevity.

Enhance Your Smile with High-Quality Crowns

Whether you’re addressing broken teeth, weak teeth, or seeking a cosmetic enhancement, dental crowns offer a versatile solution. Their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ability to restore oral health make them a valuable investment.

For more information on dental services, including crown costs, contact Northern Beaches Dental at (07) 4803 0078 to explore your options. With the right care and expert guidance, achieving a healthy smile is within reach.

 

References:

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

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental veneers. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23522-dental-veneers

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Dental implant surgery. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622

National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (n.d.). Dental crowns and their role in restorative dentistry. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580480/

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