Crowns & Bridges: Costs, Types & What to Expect

Everything you need to know about Crowns in the UK. Compare treatments, understand costs and find a trusted practice near you.

Find a Practice

What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength and appearance. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap.

Types of Crowns

  • Porcelain/ceramic: Best aesthetics, ideal for front teeth. Highly natural appearance.
  • Zirconia: Extremely strong and natural-looking. Good for both front and back teeth.
  • Metal (gold/alloy): Most durable, ideal for back teeth. Less aesthetic but long-lasting.
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Metal core with porcelain exterior. Balance of strength and appearance.

The Process

Getting a crown typically takes two appointments. At the first, the tooth is shaped, an impression is taken, and a temporary crown is fitted. At the second appointment (usually 1 to 2 weeks later), the permanent crown is cemented in place. Some practices offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology.

Costs in the UK

On the NHS, crowns and bridges fall under Band 3 at £306.80. Privately, a single crown costs £400 to £900. A three-unit bridge costs £900 to £2,500. Material choice significantly affects the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Crowns & Bridges

On the NHS, crowns fall under Band 3 at £306.80. Privately, a single crown costs £400 to £900 depending on the material. Zirconia and e-max ceramic crowns are at the higher end but offer the best aesthetics.

With good oral care, a dental crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years, and many last longer. Metal and zirconia crowns tend to be the most durable. Avoiding hard foods and maintaining good hygiene helps extend their life.

A crown caps a single damaged tooth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to natural teeth on either side of the gap. Both can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal or a combination.

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic so you should not feel pain. The tooth is shaped, an impression is taken, and a temporary crown is fitted while the permanent one is made. Some sensitivity afterwards is normal.

Crowns can occasionally come loose due to decay underneath, cement failure, or biting on something hard. If this happens, keep the crown safe and see your dentist as soon as possible. Avoid trying to reattach it yourself with household glue.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Dentist?

Tell us what you need and we'll connect you with a trusted dental practice near you. Free, no-obligation quotes.

Get a Free Quote