Types of Dental Crowns: Materials, Durability, and Cost
Not all dental crowns are created equal. The material you choose can impact not only the look and feel of your restoration but also how long it lasts and how much it costs. This guide walks you through the main types of dental crowns used in the UK and helps you find the right fit for your needs.
Metal Crowns
Material: Gold alloys, base metal alloys (e.g., nickel, chromium)
Pros:
Extremely strong and long-lasting
Ideal for out-of-sight molars
Cons:
Visibly metallic
Less commonly requested today
Cost: £500–£700
Lifespan: Often 15+ years with proper care
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
Material: Metal base with porcelain overlay
Pros:
Good balance of strength and appearance
Widely available and NHS-compatible
Cons:
Porcelain may chip over time
Metal margin may show near the gum
Cost: £700–£900
Lifespan: Around 10–15 years
All-Ceramic Crowns (Zirconia & E-Max)
Material: High-strength ceramics, including Zirconia and lithium disilicate (E-max)
Pros:
Highly aesthetic and metal-free
Excellent for front teeth or smile makeovers
Cons:
May cost more than other types
Cost: £800–£1,500
Lifespan: 10–20 years; Hospital One's zirconia crowns show a 98.2% 5-year survival rate
CEREC Same-Day Crowns
Material: Milled ceramic blocks
Pros:
Designed and placed in a single visit
No temporary crown needed
Cons:
Not always suitable for every case
Cost: £850–£1,200
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Comparison Table
| Type | Aesthetic | Strength | Cost Range | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal | Low | High | £500–£700 | Molars |
| PFM | Moderate | Moderate | £700–£900 | General |
| Zirconia/E-Max | High | High | £800–£1,500 | Front teeth, smile line |
| CEREC | High | Moderate | £850–£1,200 | Convenience seekers |
Maintenance Tips
Avoid hard foods and chewing ice
Maintain regular dental checkups
Use a night guard if you grind your teeth
When to Replace a Crown
Visible damage or wear
Recurrent decay underneath
Loosening or discomfort
Still unsure which crown is best?
See how much each crown costs and what suits your tooth
Want to understand NHS vs private options?
Explore our full NHS vs private crown comparison
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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.