Shine Bright: Your Guide to Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown Costs
Understanding What You'll Pay for a Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown
Porcelain fused to high noble metal crown cost typically ranges from $800 to $3,000 per tooth, with an average cost of around $1,200 to $1,500. This type of crown offers an excellent balance of strength and aesthetics by combining a strong metal base (gold, platinum, or palladium) with a natural-looking porcelain exterior.
Quick Cost Breakdown:
- Average cost: $1,200 - $1,500 per crown
- Low-cost areas: Starting around $800 - $1,000
- High-cost areas: Up to $2,127 - $3,000
- With insurance: You may pay 50% (around $600 - $750)
- Additional costs: Crown build-up ($130 - $295), post and core if needed ($150 - $250)
Understanding dental costs can be confusing. While porcelain fused to high noble metal (PFM) crowns cost more than some alternatives, they are a durable, biocompatible, and proven solution. The "high noble metal" base contains precious metals like gold and platinum, which are less likely to cause allergic reactions and provide a strong foundation for the porcelain.
In this guide, we'll break down what influences the cost of these crowns, how they compare to other options, what your insurance might cover, and how to choose the right dentist for your needs. We're here to help you make a smart, informed decision about your dental health.
What is a Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown?
A dental crown, or "tooth cap," is a custom-made covering that fits over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It's an ideal solution for a tooth that is damaged, decayed, or weakened.
A porcelain fused to high noble metal crown is a specific type that combines the strength of a metal substructure with the natural look of a porcelain overlay. This PFM structure makes it a reliable and aesthetic choice in restorative dentistry, especially for teeth that have undergone a root canal or have large fillings.
Composition, Advantages, and Disadvantages
The core of a PFM crown is made from a high noble alloy, which must contain at least 60% noble metals (like gold, platinum, or palladium) with at least 40% being gold. This metal base is then covered with layers of tooth-colored porcelain.
Advantages:
- Exceptional Strength: The metal core provides incredible durability, making these crowns resistant to breaking and ideal for molars.
- Natural Appearance: The porcelain layer is matched to your other teeth, creating a natural-looking smile.
- Excellent Biocompatibility: High noble metals are well-tolerated by the body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or gum irritation.
- Proven Track Record: PFM crowns have been used successfully in dentistry for over 50 years.
Disadvantages:
- Potential Dark Line: A dark line from the metal edge may become visible at the gum line if your gums recede.
- Tooth Preparation: May require slightly more removal of the natural tooth structure compared to all-ceramic crowns.
- Wear on Opposing Teeth: The porcelain surface can cause minor wear on the opposing teeth over time.
- Metal Allergies: Though rare with high noble metals, a small number of people may have an allergy to a metal in the alloy.
To explore other options, see our Dental Crown Options Ultimate Guide.
The Crown Placement Process from Start to Finish
Getting a PFM crown typically takes two visits to our Bellefontaine, OH office.
Visit 1: Preparation and Impressions
- Examination and Numbing: We examine the tooth with X-rays and numb the area to ensure your comfort.
- Tooth Preparation: We remove any decay and reshape the tooth to make room for the crown.
- Impressions: A precise mold of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom crown will be crafted.
- Temporary Crown: We place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your permanent one is being made.
Visit 2: Placing Your Permanent Crown
- Final Fitting: We remove the temporary crown and place your new permanent crown, checking the fit, bite, and color.
- Adjustments: Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure a perfect and comfortable fit.
- Cementation: Once you are happy with the result, we permanently bond the crown to your tooth with a strong dental adhesive.
After a final bite check, you'll leave with a beautifully restored tooth. Learn more about our Crowns and Bridges services.
Understanding the Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown Cost
Navigating the financial side of dental care can be complex. The porcelain fused to high noble metal crown cost generally ranges from $800 to $3,000 per tooth, with a common price point between $1,200 and $1,500. This investment covers a high-quality restoration that is both strong and aesthetically pleasing.
While PFM crowns with high noble metals are a durable, long-lasting choice, several factors can influence the final price.
Factors That Influence the Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown Cost
- Geographic Location: Dental fees vary by region. Our pricing in Bellefontaine, OH, reflects our commitment to high-quality, personalized care.
- Dentist's Expertise: An experienced dentist's skill and investment in modern technology contribute to the cost and ensure a better, longer-lasting result.
- Dental Lab Fees: A significant portion of the cost goes to the specialized lab that fabricates your custom crown using high-quality materials and precious metals.
- Fluctuating Metal Prices: The market price of gold, platinum, and palladium can affect the overall cost of the crown.
- Complexity of Your Case: A straightforward crown placement will cost less than a more complex case requiring additional support like a core build-up.
- Preliminary Procedures: The total cost will be higher if you need other treatments first, such as a Root Canal Treatment.
How the Cost of a Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown Compares to Alternatives
Choosing the right crown involves balancing cost, aesthetics, and durability. Here’s how PFM crowns compare to other common options:
| Crown Type | Average Cost (Bellefontaine, OH / Logan County, OH) | Aesthetics | Durability | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal (PFM) | $1,200 - $1,500 | Good, natural-looking porcelain overlay | Excellent, strong metal base | Balance of strength and aesthetics; biocompatible; can show dark line at gum if gums recede; long track record. |
| All-Ceramic (e.g., E-max, Empress) | $800 - $3,000 | Excellent, most natural, highly translucent | Good to excellent, depending on material | Metal-free, ideal for front teeth; can be less durable than PFM in high-stress areas; requires careful handling; often more expensive than PFM. |
| Zirconia | $800 - $3,000 | Excellent, strong, good translucency | Superior, very fracture-resistant | Very strong, suitable for back teeth; metal-free; can be difficult to bond; may cause wear on opposing teeth if not highly polished; often processed with CAD/CAM. |
| Full Gold Crowns | $600 - $2,500 | Poor (gold color), but well-tolerated | Superior, very gentle on opposing teeth | Extremely durable, biocompatible, minimal tooth reduction; preferred for back molars where aesthetics are not a primary concern; wears like natural enamel. |
| Porcelain Fused to Base Metal Crowns | $500 - $1,500 | Good, similar to high noble PFM | Excellent, very strong | Cheaper metal alloys (e.g., nickel, chromium); can be less biocompatible, potential for allergies; higher risk of gum discoloration; generally not our first recommendation due to potential issues. |
All-ceramic crowns offer the best aesthetics and are ideal for front teeth. You can learn more in our guide on Ceramic Teeth Caps. Zirconia crowns provide superior strength and excellent aesthetics, making them a great all-around choice. Full gold crowns are extremely durable and are often used for back molars where appearance is less of a concern. We typically recommend high noble PFM crowns over base metal PFM crowns due to their superior biocompatibility.
Does Insurance Cover the Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal Crown Cost?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the porcelain fused to high noble metal crown cost, as it is considered a medically necessary restorative procedure. Typically, insurance covers about 50% of the cost after your deductible is met.
Your plan's annual maximum, which is the most your insurance will pay in a year. At Logan Dental Care, we accept most PPO insurance plans and will help you understand and maximize your benefits.
What if you don't have insurance?
We believe everyone deserves quality dental care. We offer several options to make treatment affordable:
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA): You can use these pre-tax accounts to pay for dental procedures. Learn more about Using an FSA for healthcare costs.
- In-House Payment Plans: We offer flexible payment options to fit your budget. Please ask our team for details.
- Government Programs: While Medicare generally won't cover routine dental care, some community health centers may offer services at a reduced cost.
Our team is here to help you steer the financial aspects of your care. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden surprises.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing a dental crown is an investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life. It's about restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile without hesitation. At Logan Dental Care, we want you to feel confident in your decision by understanding the longevity of your crown, how to care for it, and what to look for in a dental provider.
Durability, Aftercare, and Finding the Right Dentist
How Long Will Your Crown Last?
With proper care, a porcelain fused to high noble metal crown can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. The durability of the high noble metal base contributes significantly to this long lifespan. Your oral hygiene habits, diet, and regular dental check-ups all play a role.
Taking Care of Your Crown
Caring for your crown is just like caring for your natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, focusing on the gum line around the crown.
- Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup and decay at the crown's edge.
- Attend regular check-ups and cleanings so we can monitor your crown and overall oral health.
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or hard candy, which can damage the porcelain.
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth (bruxism) to protect your crown from excessive force.
Choosing the Right Dentist Makes All the Difference
The success of your crown depends heavily on the skill of your dentist. At Logan Dental Care, we're not a large, impersonal clinic; we treat our patients like family. We combine a small-town, friendly atmosphere with the latest in dental technology.
When choosing a dentist, look for experience, modern technology, and a commitment to personalized care. Our team has placed countless crowns and invests in advanced tools to ensure your treatment is comfortable and precise. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your options clearly, and create a treatment plan that fits your needs and budget.
Your smile is a vital part of your well-being. Investing in a high-quality crown is an investment in yourself. Whether you need to restore a single tooth after a Root Canal Treatment or are considering a full smile makeover with our Cosmetic Dentistry options, we are here to help.
Ready to take the next step? We'd love to answer your questions and create a personalized plan for you. Schedule your consultation to learn more about our crowns and bridges services today. We look forward to welcoming you to the Logan Dental Care family.