How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost in Ontario?

Key Takeaways

• Dental crown costs in Ontario typically range between $800 and $2000.
• Factors like crown material, dentist experience, clinic location, and lab fees all influence the final price.
• Uninsured patients often pay the full cost out of pocket, but may be eligible for financing or payment plans.
• Expert advice and careful comparison can help patients make cost-effective decisions.

What factors influence the cost of a dental crown in Ontario?

Dental crowns in Ontario aren’t priced with a one-size-fits-all sticker. Instead, several interrelated factors shape how much a patient will pay out of pocket. Understanding these variables can help demystify what appears to be arbitrary pricing.

Material Used

One of the most influential variables is the type of material used to fabricate the crown. Different materials serve different functional and aesthetic purposes:

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Durable and aesthetic, but may show a dark line at the gum over time.
• All-porcelain or all-ceramic: Offers the most natural look, ideal for front teeth. Tends to cost more due to aesthetics and craftsmanship.
• Zirconia: Exceptionally strong, often used in molars. It can be more expensive, especially when layered with porcelain.
• Gold alloys: Long-lasting and biocompatible, though rarely chosen due to cost and appearance.

Each material affects both longevity and appearance, which is why the choice should be matched with the tooth's location and function.

Dentist’s Expertise and Reputation

Dentists with advanced training, certifications, or memberships in prosthodontic associations may charge more for crown placements.

Dr. James C.H. Ko DDS, notes:
"You’re not just paying for the material — you’re investing in how it interacts with your bite, gums, and long-term function. Choosing the right crown can prevent additional costs down the road."

More experienced dentists also often work with premium labs, contributing to overall cost but improving quality and patient outcomes.

Location of the Clinic

As with most healthcare services, urban clinics in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, or Mississauga typically charge more than clinics in rural or suburban areas. Overhead costs, rent, and even staff salaries in these regions often get passed on to patients.

Dental Lab Fees

Crowns are not made in-house at most clinics. Instead, they’re fabricated by dental laboratories, which vary in cost based on their reputation, speed, and the materials used. A high-end lab with experienced technicians may charge significantly more than an introductory lab.

Number of Visits and Complexity

Most traditional crown placements require two visits — one for tooth preparation and impression, another for fitting the permanent crown. However, more complex cases (e.g., those needing root canals or post buildups) may involve additional visits, further increasing costs.

How much does a dental crown typically cost in Ontario?

In Ontario, the cost of a dental crown can vary depending on several factors — many of which we’ve already discussed. Still, here’s a general breakdown based on 2024 data from regional dental clinics and associations.

Average Price Ranges

These prices generally include lab fees and two appointments, but exclude any preparatory treatments, such as root canals or core build-ups.

With and Without Insurance

• With insurance: Depending on the provider, 50%–80% of the crown cost may be covered, especially if it's deemed medically necessary.
• Without insurance, Patients can expect to pay the full cost upfront, although some clinics offer payment plans or third-party financing.

Many plans have annual maximums, so it’s advisable to coordinate treatments across calendar years if major work is needed.

How much is a crown without insurance in Ontario?

For patients without dental insurance, the costs can seem daunting. But breaking it down helps clarify what’s being paid for.

Uninsured Cost Breakdown

Let’s look at what goes into a crown’s price for an uninsured patient:

• Initial consultation: $60–$150
• Tooth preparation: Included in total cost or $100–$300
• Crown fabrication and placement: $900–$2,000
• X-rays, impressions, and extras: $100–$250

Total expected cost: $1,100–$2,500 depending on materials, location, and complexity.

Does insurance cover dental crowns in Ontario?

Dental insurance in Ontario can significantly offset the cost of a crown — but it’s not always straightforward. Coverage depends heavily on the plan type, the insurer, and the reason for the claim.

Types of Dental Insurance Plans

Dental coverage in Ontario generally falls under two categories:

• Basic Plans: Cover preventive care and minor treatments, like fillings and cleanings.
• Comprehensive or Major Plans: Include major restorative treatments, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

Coverage Percentages and Conditions

In many cases, plans cover 50% to 80% of the cost of a dental crown, provided:

• The crown is deemed medically necessary (e.g., to restore a cracked or decayed tooth).
• It isn’t classified as cosmetic work.

Some insurance providers also require pre-authorization before approving crown treatment. There may also be a waiting period of 3–12 months after plan activation before crown coverage kicks in.

Common Exclusions and Limits

• Cosmetic crowns (e.g., to improve smile aesthetics) are rarely covered.
• Annual maximums: Many plans cap total benefits at $1,000–$2,500 per year.
• Frequency limitations: Coverage may be allowed only once every 5 years per tooth.

What is the difference between a temporary crown and a permanent crown in terms of cost?

Temporary and permanent crowns differ not just in function and durability, but also in how much you’ll pay — and when.

Why Temporary Crowns Are Used

Temporary crowns are usually placed between the first and second appointments of a traditional crown procedure. They're meant to:

• Protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
• Allow normal eating and speaking.
• Prevent shifting of adjacent teeth.

Temporary crowns are usually included in the total crown cost. However, if one breaks or must be replaced, some clinics charge an additional $100–$200.

Permanent crowns, due to materials and lab fabrication, represent the bulk of the cost. They're custom-made, polished, and bonded for long-term use.

When Additional Costs Arise

• Urgent replacements for broken temporary crowns.
• Customization requests on temporary crowns.

Bottom line: While temporary crowns carry minimal financial impact, they’re essential to the success of the final restoration.

What are the most common types of dental crowns available in Canada?

Canada offers a wide range of dental crown options to suit various clinical and aesthetic needs. Each type has its own advantages and trade-offs.

Common Crown Types Table

Choosing the Right Crown

The ideal crown depends on:

• Tooth location
• Patient budget
• Bite force (e.g., grinding)
• Aesthetic demands

Some patients prefer the natural translucency of porcelain for visible teeth, while others prioritize strength with zirconia on molars.

How do different crown materials affect the cost in Ontario?

The materials used in dental crowns significantly impact their cost due to factors such as durability, aesthetic quality, and the fabrication methods employed. Here's a breakdown of how each material influences the final price.

Cost Ranges by Material

Zirconia and porcelain crowns offer higher aesthetic value, making them popular for visible teeth. Gold crowns are exceptionally durable but often avoided for cosmetic reasons. Resin crowns are used temporarily or when budgets are tight.

What financing plans are available in Pickering Smile Centre?

Pickering Smile Centre understands that dental crown procedures can present a financial burden, especially for uninsured patients. To make high-quality care more accessible, the clinic provides flexible financing options through trusted third-party providers.

iFinance and Dentalcard Options

The clinic partners with iFinance Canada, which operates Dentalcard, a widely recognized financing platform. Patients can:

• Spread payments over 6–18 months
• Choose interest-free or low-interest plans (depending on credit and term length)
• Get approvals within one business day

For more details, please visit their financing page.

How to Apply

Patients can:

• Fill out a short application form online directly through the financing partner
• Or apply in-clinic with help from staff

No down payment is usually required, and you can start treatment immediately upon approval.

This is particularly beneficial for crowns costing $1,000 or more, making treatment manageable for those without insurance or with annual coverage limits.

How does a dental crown compare in cost to alternative treatments?

Dental crowns are one of several options for restoring damaged or aesthetically unappealing teeth. Here's how they compare to alternatives like veneers, large fillings, and implants in terms of cost and functionality.

Cost Comparison Table

When Crowns Make More Sense

• When a tooth is structurally compromised
• After root canal treatment
• When fillings are too large to hold

When Alternatives Work Better

• Veneers for smile makeovers
• Fillings for minimal damage
• Implants are used when the tooth is completely non-restorable

What should you know before getting a dental crown in Ontario?

A dental crown is a significant investment — not just financially, but in terms of oral health. Making the right decision means understanding all your options and knowing what to expect.

Summary Table

Expert Recommendations

• Always request a detailed estimate that includes lab fees and any follow-up care.
• Verify if your crown is eligible for insurance reimbursement or pre-approval.
• Discuss material choices with your dentist to strike a balance between durability and appearance.
• Consider financing plans if upfront costs are a concern.

Ultimately, the right dental crown isn’t just about the lowest cost — it’s about long-term value, comfort, and health.