Dental Crown Cost London: What to Expect in 2026
A dental crown is one of the most common restorative dental treatments – and one of the more significant investments in your dental care. If your dentist has recommended a crown, you’ll want to understand what it costs, why prices vary so much, and what questions to ask before you say yes.
This guide covers NHS and private crown pricing in London, the different materials available, and what typically affects the final cost.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a cap that fits over an existing tooth. It’s used to restore a tooth that’s too damaged to hold a filling – typically after a root canal, a fracture, or extensive decay. The crown protects the remaining tooth structure and restores normal function and appearance.
Getting a crown usually takes two appointments: one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and a second to fit the finished crown. Some practices now offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology, which mills the crown in the practice from a digital scan.
NHS crown costs in London
If your dentist recommends a crown on clinical grounds, it may be available on the NHS. NHS crown treatment falls under Band 3, which covers the most complex treatments.
In 2026, the NHS Band 3 charge is £319.10. This covers all treatment needed in that course of treatment, including any preparatory work. You pay this once regardless of how many crowns are fitted in that course.
NHS crowns are typically made from metal, metal-ceramic, or (in some cases) full ceramic, depending on which tooth is being crowned and what the dentist judges clinically appropriate.
Private crown costs in London
Private crown pricing in London varies considerably. The main factors are the material, the practice, the dentist’s experience, and the location of the tooth.
Typical private crown costs in London in 2026:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown: £600-£900
- Full ceramic (e-max or zirconia) crown: £800-£1,500
- Gold crown: £900-£1,800
- Same-day CAD/CAM crown: £800-£1,400
Zirconia crowns are increasingly popular for back teeth – they’re strong, durable, and tooth-coloured. E-max ceramic crowns are often used for front teeth where aesthetics are the priority. PFM crowns are a slightly older technology but still widely used and effective.
These are approximate ranges. Some specialist or cosmetic practices in central London charge above these figures. Always ask for a written treatment plan with costs before any work begins.
What affects the cost?
The material. Full ceramic crowns cost more to manufacture than metal or PFM. Gold, while old-fashioned in appearance, remains one of the most durable options and is priced accordingly.
The tooth being crowned. Back teeth (molars) require sturdier materials and are more complex to fit. A molar crown is often priced higher than a crown on a front tooth.
Whether a post is needed. If the tooth has had a root canal, a post may need to be placed inside the root canal to help retain the crown. This is usually charged separately – typically £100-£300 extra.
The practice location. Central London practices tend to charge at the higher end. Outer London practices often have lower overheads and may price accordingly.
Questions to ask before you commit
- What material do you recommend for this tooth, and why?
- Is a post and core included in the quote?
- Are there any other costs I should expect – X-rays, impressions, temporaries?
- What’s your policy if the crown fails within a certain time?
- How long do you estimate this crown will last?
A reputable practice will answer all of these questions clearly before any work begins. If you can’t get a clear written quote, that’s worth noting.
Is a crown always the right treatment?
Crowns are not always the only option. Onlays – partial crowns that cover only the damaged part of the tooth – are sometimes appropriate and can be less invasive. Composite build-ups may work for less severely damaged teeth. Ask your dentist whether alternatives are possible and what the trade-offs are.
Finding a practice for crown treatment in London
Use the directory to find practices near you. Filter by treatment type and check CQC inspection ratings before you contact a practice. Many practices offer a consultation – often free or at low cost – to assess the tooth and give you a treatment plan with costs.
Prices are approximate and may vary between practices. Contact the practice directly for a personalised quote. This information is a general guide and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Always consult a qualified dentist about your individual circumstances.
A black or darkened tooth is one of the most common reasons patients need a crown. Whether the cause is decay, a dead tooth from trauma, or heavy staining, the treatment options and what they cost are covered in our article on whether a dentist can fix a black tooth.