Dental Crown Costs in the UK: Complete Guide for NHS and Private Patients
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. You might need a crown after a root canal, a large filling, a cracked tooth, or to improve the look of a discoloured or misshapen tooth.
Crowns can be made from different materials, and the type you choose can affect cost, durability, and aesthetics. Explore our crowns and bridges treatments.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost in the UK?
NHS Crown Costs
Under the NHS, dental crowns fall under Band 3 treatment. As of 2024, this costs £306.80 in England. The price is fixed, regardless of the type of crown or the tooth being treated. However, NHS crowns are generally functional rather than aesthetic.
Private Crown Costs by Material
Private crown prices vary based on the material used and the clinic's location. Here's a general breakdown:
| Location | Consultation | Imaging | PFM Crown | Zirconia Crown | E-Max Crown | Single Tooth Total | Full-Mouth (24 Crowns) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertfordshire | £50 | N/A | £800 | £1,200 | £1,200 | £850–£1,250 | £19,200–£28,800 |
| Liverpool (Garston) | £60 | N/A | £695 | £800 | £800 | £755–£860 | £16,680–£19,200 |
| Liverpool (City Centre) | £90 | N/A | £850 | £900 | £900 | £940–£990 | £20,400–£21,600 |
| London (Marylebone) | £195 | £60–£180 | £1,200 | £1,500 | £1,500 | £1,455–£1,875 | £28,800–£36,000 |
| Brighton | Free | £45 | £495 | £495 | £495 | £540 | £11,880 |
| London (Putney) | £81 | £21 | £991 | £1,339 | £1,339 | £1,093–£1,441 | £23,784–£32,136 |
At Hospital One, we specialise in advanced all-ceramic crowns using Zirconia and E-max materials. Our crowns are fabricated in-house using CAD/CAM technology for exceptional fit and aesthetics. With survival rates of 98.2% for Zirconia and 95.4% for E-max at 5 years, and biocompatibility certified to ISO 6872, patients benefit from both safety and long-term performance.
NHS vs Private Crowns: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | NHS Crown | Private Crown |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £306.80 (Band 3) | £700 – £1,500+ |
| Material | Often metal or basic porcelain | Choice of high-end materials |
| Aesthetics | Functional, not always tooth-coloured | Designed to match natural teeth |
| Waiting Time | Can be several weeks | Often faster, some offer same-day |
| Dentist Choice | Assigned via NHS | Freedom to choose provider |
Private crowns may be more suitable for visible front teeth or if you're prioritising long-term durability and appearance.
Which Crown Type Is Right for You?
| Need | Best Crown Type |
|---|---|
| Back molar, strong bite | Metal or PFM |
| Front tooth, high aesthetic demand | All-ceramic (E-Max, zirconia) |
| Fast treatment, minimal appointments | CEREC same-day crowns |
| Budget-sensitive, NHS eligible | NHS Band 3 crown |
Speak to your dentist to weigh up durability, aesthetics, and cost.
Are Crowns Covered by NHS Exemption?
Yes, if you qualify for NHS dental fee exemptions (e.g. under 18, pregnant, income-related benefits), your Band 3 treatment, including crowns, is free. Always check with your dentist or NHS guidance to confirm eligibility.
Advanced Technology at Hospital One
Hospital One integrates advanced CAD/CAM systems and digital scanning, and in-house fabrication to deliver faster, more accurate crowns. Our zirconia and E-max restorations adhere to European standards (ISO 6872, EPS guidelines), offering:
Same-day crowns with minimal visits
Precision fitting and natural aesthetics
Full material traceability and biocompatibility
High patient satisfaction and safety protocols
Learn more about our advanced dental technology.
Ready to restore your smile?
Book a free quote today to explore your options. Read real patient stories.
FAQs
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NHS crowns cost £306.80. Private crowns range from £500 to £1,500, depending on material and clinic.
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Yes, especially for front teeth or where aesthetics and longevity are important.
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Yes, they are covered under NHS guarantees, but only for necessary treatment.
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No, it's done under local anaesthetic. Some post-procedure sensitivity is normal but temporary.
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Typically 5–15 years. Ceramic and zirconia crowns can last even longer with good care.