Last updated: January 2026. This guide covers dental crown costs in the UK, including current NHS Band 3 charges, private pricing by material type, regional variations, and who qualifies for free treatment.
If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, one of your first questions is likely to be: "How much will this cost?" The answer depends on whether you're treated on the NHS or privately, the type of crown material, and where you live in the UK.
This comprehensive guide provides current, verified pricing information to help you understand what to expect and make an informed decision about your dental crown treatment.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are custom-made to fit over your existing tooth and are permanently cemented in place.
"A crown is a type of cap that completely covers a real tooth. It's usually made from metal, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic and is fixed in your mouth." — NHS
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Your dentist may recommend a crown if you have:
- A badly broken or chipped tooth — Crowns can rebuild teeth that have lost significant structure
- A tooth weakened by decay — Large cavities can leave teeth fragile and prone to further damage
- A large filling with little remaining tooth — When fillings become too large, crowns provide better protection
- A tooth that has had root canal treatment — Root-treated teeth are more brittle and often need crowns for protection
- Cosmetic improvement — Crowns can improve the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth
"A crown is a good way to rebuild a tooth that has been badly broken or weakened due to decay or a large filling." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
NHS Dental Crown Costs (2026)
Dental crowns fall under NHS Band 3 treatment. The cost varies depending on which UK nation you live in.
Current NHS Band 3 Charges
| Nation | Band 3 Cost | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| England | £326.70 | 1 April 2025 |
| Wales | £260.00 | 1 April 2024 |
| Scotland | Maximum £384 | Patients pay 80% of costs, capped |
| Northern Ireland | Varies | Patients pay 80% of costs |
Important: These charges cover all treatment within the same course of treatment, not just the crown. If you need an examination, X-rays, fillings, and a crown, you only pay the Band 3 charge once.
"Band 3: £326.70 - complex treatments including crowns, dentures and bridges (including any Band 1 and 2 treatment)" — NHS Business Services Authority
What's Included in NHS Crown Treatment?
Your NHS Band 3 charge covers:
- Initial examination and diagnosis
- X-rays if needed
- Any preparatory treatment (fillings, root canal)
- The crown itself
- Fitting and adjustments
- A 12-month guarantee on the crown
NHS Crown Materials
The NHS provides clinically appropriate crown materials, which may include:
"Available crown materials on the NHS include: all metal (such as gold or another alloy), porcelain fused to metal, all resin, all ceramic, and stainless steel." — NHS
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable material based on the tooth's location and your bite. Metal crowns are often used for back teeth where strength is the priority, whilst tooth-coloured options are typically used for visible front teeth.
Private Dental Crown Costs (2026)
Private crown costs vary significantly based on the material, your location, and the dental practice. Here's what you can expect to pay in the UK.
Crown Costs by Material Type
| Crown Material | Private Cost Range | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Metal (gold or alloy) | £400–£600 | Back teeth (molars) where strength is priority |
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | £450–£800 | Balance of strength and aesthetics |
| All-porcelain/ceramic | £600–£900 | Front teeth where appearance matters most |
| Emax (lithium disilicate) | £650–£1,600 | Premium aesthetics, strong for most uses |
| Zirconia | £700–£1,200 | Heavy-use areas with good appearance |
Regional Price Variations
Where you live affects private dental costs:
"Central London practices charge 20-30% more than regional practices due to higher overheads"
| Region | Typical Single Crown Cost |
|---|---|
| Central London | £700–£1,500 |
| South-East England | £600–£1,200 |
| Northern England | £500–£900 |
| Wales | £450–£850 |
| Scotland | £500–£950 |
| Northern Ireland | £450–£850 |
NHS vs Private Crown: Key Differences
| Factor | NHS Crown | Private Crown |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £326.70 (England) | £400–£1,500 |
| Material choice | Clinically appropriate | Full range available |
| Waiting time | May have longer waits | Usually faster appointments |
| Aesthetics | Functional focus | Can prioritise appearance |
| Appointment flexibility | Limited | More flexible scheduling |
Crown Materials Explained
Understanding the different crown materials helps you make an informed choice, particularly if paying privately.
Metal Crowns (Gold or Alloy)
Cost: £400–£600 private | Included in NHS Band 3
Metal crowns are the strongest and most durable option. They require less tooth removal and cause minimal wear to opposing teeth.
"Metal alloys (a mixture of gold/silver and other metals) are used where strength is needed and the tooth does not show in the smile. Sometimes it is better to place a gold crown on a molar (back) tooth." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Best for: Back teeth (molars), heavy grinders, patients who prioritise longevity over aesthetics.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
Cost: £450–£800 private | Included in NHS Band 3
PFM crowns have a metal core for strength with a porcelain outer layer for a natural appearance. The metal lining can sometimes show as a dark line at the gum margin.
"Tooth coloured porcelain with a metal lining provides strength and a good appearance." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Best for: Teeth that need both strength and reasonable aesthetics.
All-Ceramic/Porcelain Crowns
Cost: £600–£900 private | May be available on NHS
All-ceramic crowns provide the most natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth. They're metal-free, making them suitable for patients with metal allergies.
"Tooth coloured all-ceramic/porcelain crowns are used where the crown can be seen and the bite is not heavy." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Best for: Front teeth, patients concerned about aesthetics, those with metal sensitivities.
Zirconia Crowns
Cost: £700–£1,200 private
Zirconia crowns combine strength comparable to metal with good aesthetics. They're highly durable and resistant to chipping, making them increasingly popular for both front and back teeth.
Best for: Patients wanting strong, natural-looking crowns for any tooth position.
Emax Crowns
Cost: £650–£1,600 private
Emax (lithium disilicate) crowns offer exceptional aesthetics with translucency that closely mimics natural teeth. They're strong enough for most applications but not recommended for heavy grinders.
Best for: Front teeth and premolars where appearance is the top priority.
The Crown Procedure: What to Expect
Understanding the treatment process helps you prepare for your appointment.
Appointment 1: Preparation
"Two visits are usually involved. For crowns and veneers the first appointment is spent re-shaping the tooth and then an impression (mould) of the tooth is taken and sent to the dental laboratory." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
During your first appointment (typically 45–60 minutes):
- Your dentist numbs the tooth with local anaesthetic
- The tooth is filed down to create space for the crown
- An impression (mould) is taken of the prepared tooth
- A temporary crown is fitted to protect the tooth
- The impression is sent to a dental laboratory
Appointment 2: Fitting (2 weeks later)
"Two weeks or so later the permanent crown is ready to be fitted. The temporary crown is easily removed and the permanent crown is cemented in place." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
At your second appointment (typically 30–45 minutes):
- The temporary crown is removed
- Your dentist checks the fit and colour of the new crown
- The permanent crown is cemented in place
- Your bite is checked and adjusted if needed
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last many years, though they will eventually need replacement.
"If a crown or veneer is properly cared for it should normally last around 8-10 years." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Factors Affecting Crown Lifespan
| Factor | Impact on Longevity |
|---|---|
| Oral hygiene | Good brushing and flossing extends life |
| Diet | Avoiding hard foods prevents damage |
| Teeth grinding | Bruxism can wear crowns faster |
| Material type | Metal crowns typically last longest |
| Gum health | Gum disease can compromise the crown |
"It is important to remember that crowns do not last a lifetime, and it may be necessary to replace them several times in a lifetime." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Crown Care Tips
Good maintenance helps your crown last longer:
"Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, using floss/interdental brushes and limiting the amount of times sugar is consumed will help preserve your crown and your natural teeth." — Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean around the crown margin carefully
- Use interdental brushes or floss daily
- Avoid biting hard objects (ice, pen caps, fingernails)
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Attend regular dental check-ups
NHS Crown Guarantees
If you have a crown fitted on the NHS, you're entitled to certain guarantees.
12-Month Guarantee
"Some NHS dental treatments are guaranteed for 12 months. You'll not be charged if any of these need to be repaired or replaced within 12 months of the original being fitted." — NHS
If your NHS crown fails within 12 months, your dentist must repair or replace it at no additional cost.
Two-Month Rule
"If you have dental treatment but need further treatment within 2 months, you do not have to pay extra if the further treatment is included in the same band, or a lower band." — NHS
If you need additional Band 3 treatment within two months of your crown fitting, you won't pay another charge.
Who Qualifies for Free NHS Dental Treatment?
Certain groups can receive NHS dental treatment, including crowns, completely free of charge.
Automatic Eligibility
"You can get free NHS dental treatment if you're aged under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education." — NHS
You qualify for free NHS dental treatment if you are:
- Under 18 years old
- Under 19 and in full-time education
- Pregnant
- Have had a baby in the last 12 months (need MatEx certificate)
- Receiving certain qualifying benefits
Benefits-Based Eligibility
"You can also get free NHS dental treatment if you or your partner receive certain benefits, and if you or your partner receive benefits that qualify, your dependents aged under 20 can also get free dental treatment." — NHS
Qualifying benefits include:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Universal Credit (if earnings are £435 or less, or £935 with child/work elements)
NHS Low Income Scheme (HC2/HC3)
If you're on a low income but don't receive qualifying benefits, you may get help through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
"You're entitled to free NHS dental treatment if you have applied to the NHS Low Income Scheme and received an HC2 certificate for full help with health costs." — NHS Business Services Authority
| Certificate | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| HC2 | Full help — free NHS dental treatment |
| HC3 | Partial help — reduced contribution towards costs |
Apply using the HC1 form, available from NHS hospitals, dentists, or online. Certificates are usually issued within 4 weeks.
NHS Low Income Scheme helpline: 0300 330 1343
When to Seek Emergency Care
Most crown-related issues aren't emergencies, but some situations require prompt attention.
Urgent Care (Within 7 Days)
"Loose or displaced crowns, bridges or veneers that are not a risk to the airway are classified as urgent care requiring face-to-face professional care within 7 days." — NHS England
Contact your dentist or NHS 111 if you have:
- A loose crown that has come off
- A broken or chipped crown
- Pain around a crowned tooth
- Swelling near a crowned tooth
Serious Emergencies (A&E)
"For patients with the most serious dental conditions including rapid swelling around the eye and throat, severe trauma or uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth, it would be better to be seen at an Accident & Emergency." — NHS England
Go to A&E if you experience:
- Rapid swelling spreading to your eye or throat
- Severe facial trauma
- Uncontrolled bleeding from your mouth
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a dental crown cost on the NHS?
In England, NHS crowns cost £326.70 under Band 3 (as of April 2025). Wales charges £260, whilst Scotland caps costs at £384 (80% of treatment costs). This single charge covers your entire course of treatment, not just the crown.
How much does a private dental crown cost in the UK?
Private crown costs range from £400 to £1,500 depending on the material and location. Metal crowns cost £400–£600, porcelain-fused-to-metal £450–£800, all-ceramic £600–£900, and premium options like zirconia or Emax £700–£1,600.
Which crown material is best?
The best material depends on the tooth location and your priorities. Metal crowns are strongest for back teeth. All-ceramic or Emax crowns look most natural for front teeth. Zirconia offers a good balance of strength and aesthetics for any position. Your dentist can advise on the best option for your specific situation.
How long does a dental crown last?
With proper care, crowns typically last 8–10 years, though many last 15–20 years or longer. Lifespan depends on oral hygiene, diet, teeth grinding habits, and the crown material. Metal crowns generally last longest.
Is getting a crown painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain. You may experience some sensitivity and discomfort for a few days after each appointment, which is normal and manageable with over-the-counter painkillers.
Can I get a white crown on the NHS?
Yes, the NHS provides tooth-coloured crowns where clinically appropriate, particularly for visible front teeth. Your dentist will recommend the most suitable material based on the tooth's location and function.
What happens if my crown falls off?
Keep the crown safe and contact your dentist promptly. If fitted within the last 12 months on the NHS, repair or replacement is free. Avoid chewing on that side and don't try to reattach it yourself with household glue.
How do I care for my dental crown?
Care for crowned teeth the same as natural teeth: brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss or use interdental brushes daily, avoid biting hard objects, and attend regular dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene around the crown margin is particularly important.
Find a Dentist for Your Crown Treatment
Whether you're looking for NHS or private crown treatment, finding the right dentist is important for a successful outcome. Consider the dentist's experience, the materials they offer, and patient reviews when making your choice.
If you need a dental crown, don't delay treatment. Leaving a damaged tooth untreated can lead to further decay, infection, or tooth loss. Early treatment is often simpler, quicker, and less costly.
Use our search to find dentists offering crown treatment in your area, compare services, and book an appointment.
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Dentists Closeby Team
Editorial Team
The Dentists Closeby editorial team is dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date information about dental care in the UK. Our team includes dental professionals, health writers, and patient advocates.
