A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or weak tooth to protect it and restore its shape and function. The NHS provides crowns as part of essential dental treatment at an affordable fixed price under Band 3 dental charges. However, the type of crown available depends on clinical necessity rather than cosmetic preference.
In this article, we will explain what a dental crown is, the types of crowns available on the NHS, the cost of an NHS crown, and how private crowns compare to NHS crowns. We will also discuss eligibility for NHS treatment and factors affecting availability.
For more details on NHS dental services, visit NHS website.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged, broken, or weakened tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used in the following cases:
A broken or worn-down tooth that needs protection.
A large filling that requires additional support.
A decayed or damaged tooth that cannot be fixed with a normal filling.
A root canal-treated tooth that needs protection to prevent fractures.
A dental bridge that requires crowns to support it.
The NHS provides crowns only when they are considered necessary for dental health, not for cosmetic reasons.
For more information on NHS dental treatments, visit NHS dental services.
The NHS provides crowns to restore a tooth’s strength, but cosmetic options are limited. The type of crown you receive depends on the location of the tooth and what the dentist considers medically necessary.
Metal Crowns – Made from metal alloys (gold, platinum, or base metals). They are strong and long-lasting, but their metallic color makes them more suitable for back teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns – A combination of metal and tooth-colored material, offering both durability and a more natural look. These are commonly used for front or visible teeth.
All-Resin Crowns – Made entirely from resin material. They are less expensive but tend to wear down faster than metal or porcelain crowns.
Full Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns – These look the most natural and are mainly used for cosmetic reasons, so they are usually only available privately.
Zirconia Crowns – Strong, long-lasting, and highly aesthetic, but they are mainly offered in private dentistry due to their higher cost.
For details on the types of dental crowns provided by the NHS, visit NHS dental services.
A dental crown on the NHS falls under Band 3 treatment, which currently costs £306.80 in England. This price includes:
Examination and consultation with the dentist.
Tooth preparation (shaping the tooth for the crown).
Taking impressions of the tooth to make the crown.
Fitting the crown once it is ready.
The £306.80 cost is fixed across all NHS dental practices in England, meaning there are no extra charges even if multiple visits are needed. However, prices may vary in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
To check current NHS dental charges, visit NHS dental costs.
Many people consider private crowns for a wider range of materials and a better aesthetic finish. However, private treatment is significantly more expensive than NHS treatment.
NHS crowns are functional and affordable, but they are limited in terms of cosmetic appearance and material choices. Private crowns, on the other hand, offer higher-quality materials such as zirconia and full porcelain, which look more natural and last longer. Private treatment also allows for faster appointments and shorter waiting times, but it comes at a much higher price, ranging from £400 to £1,500 per crown.
If cosmetic appearance is a priority, private crowns offer better materials and faster service, but at a much higher cost.
Anyone needing a crown for medical reasons can receive one on the NHS. However, some people qualify for free NHS dental treatment, including:
Children under 18 or under 19 if in full-time education.
Pregnant women and new mothers (within 12 months of giving birth).
People on certain government benefits, such as:
Universal Credit
Income Support
Pension Credit Guarantee
Jobseeker’s Allowance
NHS Low Income Scheme applicants who qualify for reduced or free treatment.
For eligibility details, visit NHS dental cost help.
Many patients ask whether they can see a private consultant for advice and then receive treatment through the NHS. The answer is yes, in some cases. You can pay for a private consultation to get expert advice or a second opinion, and if the consultant recommends treatment, you may be able to have it done through the NHS—provided it meets NHS guidelines for medical necessity.
However, NHS treatment will still follow NHS rules, including waiting lists and limited treatment options.
If you prefer faster access, shorter waiting times, and more treatment choices, private treatment may be the better option. Heal Private offers high-quality private consultancy and care, ensuring expert advice, modern facilities, and personalized treatment plans.
Getting a crown on the NHS is an affordable option for patients who need one for medical reasons, costing £306.80 under Band 3 charges. However, NHS crowns focus on function rather than appearance, and waiting times can be longer.
For patients wanting more choices, better aesthetics, and quicker treatment, private dentistry offers more materials and flexibility—but at a higher price.
Understanding NHS charges, eligibility, and private alternatives can help patients make the best decision for their dental health. Whether choosing NHS or private care, consulting an expert first ensures the best possible outcome.
For more details on NHS dental treatment, visit NHS dental services.