Crowns & Bridges

Who it's for

Teeth that are cracked, heavily filled, root-canal treated, or badly worn often need crowns. A bridge is one option when a tooth is missing.

How it goes

1. 1The tooth is shaped and any decay is removed
2. 2A digital scan or impression is taken
3. 3A temporary crown protects the tooth while the lab makes the final one
4. 4The final crown or bridge is fitted, adjusted and cemented

Recovery: Mild sensitivity and gum tenderness for a few days. Avoid very sticky or hard foods with a temporary crown.

What's included?

A treatment total is usually several line items added together. This is why two quotes for “the same” treatment can differ. Not every component below is required for every patient — your plan should list only what your case needs.

• Exam and X-rays D0150

  Commonly included

  Assessment and imaging before the crown is planned.

• Porcelain-fused or ceramic crown D2740

  Always part of this treatment

  The crown itself. Material choice (ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold) affects the fee.

• Core buildup D2950

  Only if your case needs it

  Needed when much of the tooth is missing. Not every crown needs one.

• Temporary crown D2799

  Commonly included

  The provisional crown worn while the lab makes the final one. Often included in the crown fee.

Why prices differ

• Crown material (ceramic, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal)
• Whether a core buildup is needed
• In-house milling vs. outside lab

Questions to ask your dentist

• “Is a buildup included or billed separately?”
• “Is the temporary crown included in the crown fee?”
• “What material, and why that one for this tooth?”

Insurance tips

Typically a major service at about 50%, often with a 5-year replacement limit. A single crown can use a large share of a $1,000–$1,500 annual maximum.