Dental Crowns

Under local anesthesia, the dentist removes any decay, rebuilds the core of the tooth if needed and reshapes it so the crown can fit over it. A digital scan or impression is taken and a temporary crown is fitted. The laboratory, or an in-office milling machine for same-day crowns, makes the permanent crown, which is tried in, adjusted for bite and color, and cemented or bonded in place; an X-ray may be taken to check the fit.

1. 1Dental examination and X-rays to check the tooth, its nerve and the surrounding gum and bone.
2. 2Treat decay and gum disease first; if the nerve is infected or badly damaged, root canal treatment is done before the crown.
3. 3Agree on the crown material (zirconia, lithium disilicate, porcelain-fused-to-metal or metal) and get the price per tooth in writing.
4. 4Choose the shade with the dentist in daylight, especially for front teeth.
5. 5If you grind or clench your teeth, plan a night guard to protect the new crowns.

1. 1Day 0: Numbness wears off within a few hours; avoid chewing on that side until it does.
2. 2Days 1-14: Mild sensitivity to hot and cold is common and usually settles; avoid sticky or hard foods on a temporary crown.
3. 3Fitting visit: The permanent crown is cemented and the bite is checked; return if the tooth feels high when you bite.
4. 4Long term: Brush twice a day, floss around the crown edge and keep regular dental check-ups; wear a night guard if you grind.

Sensitivity to hot and cold, usually temporary; nerve inflammation that may later need root canal treatment; chipping or cracking, more common with layered porcelain; a loose or dislodged crown; decay at the edge of the crown; gum irritation; rarely, an allergic reaction to the metal.

At clinics listed on xcuro, prices for dental crowns are: Mexico $220 to $650 (8 clinics). Final prices depend on your case and are confirmed in writing after a free consultation.

There is no single best country; it depends on the surgeon, the clinic and how far you are willing to travel. Among clinics listed on xcuro, prices start lowest in Mexico (from $220), which also has the most clinics (8). Compare surgeons' credentials and independent ratings before price.

Typically $1,399, according to CareCredit (Synchrony 2024 cost study).

Plan on about 5 days, from arrival to the flight home. Your surgeon will confirm when it is safe to travel.

Most U.S. health plans do not pay for elective surgery abroad, and cosmetic procedures are not covered at all. The CDC also warns that care for complications after surgery abroad may not be covered, so check your plan before you book.