Posted October 27, 2025 in Dental Crowns
If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, one of the first things that comes to mind is often the cost and what determines that price. Many patients ask, “How much does a dental crown cost?” The answer depends on several key factors, including the type of crown, the materials used, and whether any additional dental work is needed.
In this blog, we’ll cover some of the factors that determine the cost of your dental crown, so you can go into the procedure knowing what to expect.
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7 Factors That Affect the Cost of a Dental Crown
The cost of a dental crown can vary significantly depending on several factors. Below, we break down the factors that influence your total dental crown cost so you’ll know what to expect before your dental crown procedure.
1. Type of Dental Crown
- Full Crown: A full dental crown completely covers the visible portion of your tooth above the gum line. This option is usually chosen when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed. Full dental crowns are more expensive than partial crowns due to the amount of material and fabrication required.
- Partial Crown: Also called an onlay or three-quarter crown, a partial dental crown restores only the damaged area of your tooth while preserving more of its natural structure. Because less material and tooth preparation may be required, partial dental crowns may be more cost-effective in some cases.
2. Material Used
The material used for your crown is one of the factors that most impact its price.
- Porcelain: Porcelain crowns are popular because they offer a natural, tooth-colored appearance. They’re ideal for front teeth and visible areas, but tend to be more expensive due to the skill required to achieve a perfect match with your smile.
- Gold: Gold crowns are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them excellent for molars and those who clench or grind their teeth. Because the cost is influenced by the market price of gold, these crowns are often among the most expensive options.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM): PFM crowns combine the durability of a metal base with a porcelain exterior that mimics the appearance of your natural tooth enamel. They’re often a mid-range option in terms of price, balancing strength with aesthetics.
- CEREC®/CAD-CAM: CEREC® crowns are made in-office using advanced CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology. Because these crowns can be fabricated and placed in just one visit, they can save you time and lab fees. While the cost of CEREC® crowns is often comparable to traditional dental crowns, many patients find the convenience and efficiency to be a significant added value.
3. Number of Dental Crowns Required
If you need multiple dental crowns, such as for a full-mouth restoration or treatment involving several damaged teeth, your total cost will naturally be higher. However, your dentist will review all available options to help you achieve the best outcome within your budget.
4. Need for Additional Procedures
If you require other treatments before your crown can be placed, the overall cost will be affected. Common procedures to prepare your teeth for crowns include:
- Root canal
- Dental implant post placement for added support
- Gum contouring or minor surgery to expose more tooth structure
The well-trained and experienced dentists at Gentle Care Dentistry will review your crown prep needs during your consultation, ensuring you have a complete understanding of your treatment plan and costs before you commit to the procedure.
5. Complexity of the Crown Placement
The condition of your tooth and the level of precision required to place the crown can also influence pricing. For example, teeth that are broken below the gum line, have existing restorations, or are located in hard-to-reach areas may require additional time and expertise to restore. More complex cases often require additional planning and chair time, which can increase the overall costs.
6. Geographic Location
Dental care costs typically vary by region. In metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living, dental crown prices are often higher. Many patients find that receiving dental care in Las Cruces, NM, allows them to access high-quality dental treatments at a more affordable rate than in larger metropolitan areas.
7. Dentist’s Expertise
Experience and training matter when it comes to achieving beautiful, long-lasting results from your dental crown. A dentist with advanced restorative and cosmetic expertise may charge slightly more for their services, but you’re also paying for precision, aesthetics, and durability. At Gentle Care Dentistry, our dentists have advanced training and years of experience performing dental crowns.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Crowns?
In many cases, your dental insurance will cover at least part of the cost of your dental crown, especially if it’s considered medically necessary to restore function to or protect a damaged tooth. Coverage amounts, waiting periods, and frequency limitations vary by plan, so it’s important to review your specific benefits. The most reliable way to confirm coverage for the cost of your dental crown procedure is to contact your insurance provider directly.
The team at Gentle Care Dentistry is happy to go over your insurance benefits and submit the required forms to help you maximize your dental insurance benefits. We also offer payment and financing options to help make dental crowns more affordable.
Learn More About the Cost of Dental Crowns in Las Cruces, NM
A dental crown is more than just a way to improve the appearance of your teeth; it’s an investment in your overall oral health, comfort, function, and confidence. With proper care, a well-placed crown can last many years, making it a reliable and long-term solution for damaged or weakened teeth.
Whether you need to protect a tooth, restore function, or complete a dental implant, the experienced team at Gentle Care Dentistry will help you choose a dental crown option that fits both your needs and your budget.
To explore your dental crown options in Las Cruces, NM, call our office today at (575) 524-3722 or complete our online contact form.