Cost by Crown Material
- ✓Metal (stainless steel/base metal) — ₹2,500 to ₹6,000 per tooth
- ✓Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) — ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 per tooth
- ✓Zirconia (full ceramic) — ₹8,000 to ₹20,000 per tooth
- ✓Emax/premium all-ceramic — ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 per tooth
Which Crown Material Should You Choose?
- ✓Metal crowns — most durable and affordable, but visibly silver — usually reserved for back molars
- ✓PFM crowns — a metal base with a tooth-coloured porcelain layer, a common mid-range choice
- ✓Zirconia crowns — tooth-coloured all the way through, very strong, good for both front and back teeth
- ✓Emax/premium ceramic — the most natural-looking, best for front teeth where aesthetics matter most
What Affects the Final Price
- ✓Material chosen
- ✓Whether the tooth needs a root canal first
- ✓Lab used to fabricate the crown (in-house vs outsourced dental lab)
- ✓Number of crowns needed (bridges span multiple teeth)
- ✓Clinic type and city
How Long Do Crowns Last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, a well-fitted crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years, and zirconia crowns can last even longer. Grinding your teeth at night (bruxism) can shorten a crown's lifespan — ask your dentist about a night guard if this applies to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a root canal before getting a crown?
Not always. A crown is needed when a tooth is significantly damaged, cracked, or has a large filling — a root canal is only required if the tooth's nerve is infected or already treated. Your dentist will assess this with an X-ray.
Is zirconia worth the extra cost over PFM?
Zirconia is stronger, more biocompatible, and looks more natural since it has no metal base showing at the gumline over time. For front teeth or if budget allows, it's generally the better long-term choice.
How many visits does getting a crown take?
Typically two visits: the first to prepare the tooth and take an impression (with a temporary crown fitted), and a second 1–2 weeks later to fit the final crown once the dental lab completes it. Some clinics offer same-day crowns with in-house milling machines.