Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Temporary Crown Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Temporary Crown | $200 – $400 | $50 – $100 |
| Stainless Steel Crown (pediatric) | $150 – $350 | $25 – $100 |
| Long-Term Temporary | $300 – $500 | $75 – $150 |
CPT/ADA Code: D2799
What Affects the Cost
- Geographic location (urban areas cost 20-40% more)
- Dentist experience and specialization
- Type of dental insurance plan (PPO vs HMO/DHMO)
- Whether the procedure is classified as preventive, basic, or major
- Lab and material costs
- Number of teeth or surfaces involved
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Usually included in permanent crown cost
Most dental PPO plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,500. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is typically covered at 100%. Basic procedures (fillings, simple extractions) at 70-80%. Major procedures (crowns, bridges, implants) at 50%. Many plans have a 6-12 month waiting period for major work.
How to Save Money
- Dental schools offer procedures at 50-70% discount
- Dental discount plans save 20-50% for $80-$200/year
- Ask about payment plans — many dentists offer CareCredit 0% financing
- Community health centers provide sliding-scale pricing
- Get quotes from 2-3 dentists in your area
- Consider dental tourism for expensive procedures
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually no — the temporary crown is included in the cost of the permanent crown procedure. If done as a standalone procedure, it's billed separately at $200-$500.
Temporary crowns are designed for 2-3 weeks while your permanent crown is being made. Wearing one longer increases the risk of it breaking or allowing decay.
Keep the temporary crown and contact your dentist. You can temporarily reattach it with denture adhesive. Don't leave it off for more than a day or the tooth may shift.