Crown material typically changes the price by hundreds of dollars. Porcelain-fused-to-metal costs about $800–$2,000, while zirconia and E-max run about $1,000–$2,700, and choosing zirconia can add roughly $500–$1,500 to an implant total.
Key takeaways
- Zirconia is very strong and suits back teeth, while E-max looks natural and suits front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal is the lowest-cost option but can show a dark metal line at the gum.
- The best material depends on tooth location, bite force and appearance.
- Ask whether the quote lists the crown material by name.
💡 Planning your dental budget? Use our free Dental Implants Cost Calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket costs by state in under a minute.
How do the materials compare?
| Material | Typical crown cost | Strengths | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | $800–$2,000 | Strong, lower cost | Metal line can show, porcelain may chip |
| Zirconia | $1,000–$2,700 | Very strong and durable | Can look less translucent in some cases |
| E-max (lithium disilicate) | $1,000–$2,700 | Natural look, good for front teeth | Less strong than zirconia for heavy bites |
| Layered zirconia | $1,200–$2,500 for front teeth | Strength plus a more natural look | Higher lab cost |
These are benchmark prices for crowns, and an implant crown price depends on the practice and how the quote is built. For the full cost of an implant, see single tooth implant cost.
Which material is best for front and back teeth?
- Front teeth: E-max or layered zirconia usually give the most natural appearance, and PFM is often avoided because of the visible metal edge.
- Back teeth: monolithic zirconia is commonly chosen for strength under heavy chewing.
- If you grind your teeth: zirconia’s strength can help, and a night guard protects any crown.
What else affects the crown price?
- Lab quality and shade matching, especially for visible teeth.
- How the crown attaches: screw-retained or cemented, and whether a custom abutment is used.
- Your region and clinic, as with other implant costs. See cost by state.
- Whether the crown is included in the implant fee or billed separately.
How do I choose a crown material?
- Ask which materials suit the tooth’s position and your bite.
- Request the cost of each option in writing.
- Check the warranty on the crown and the lab used.
- Weigh appearance against cost, particularly for visible teeth.
For other ways to lower the total, read low-cost dental implants, and compare your quote line by line with how to read a dental implant quote.
Dental Implants Cost Calculator
Calculate your customized dental implant costs in seconds before visiting a dental office. Choose your US state, tooth location, implant brand, and restoration type (single tooth, All-on-4, All-on-6, or full mouth) with complete itemized pricing.
Launch Dental Implants Cost Calculator →Implant crown materials: frequently asked questions
What is the best material for an implant crown?
Zirconia is a common choice for back teeth because of its strength, and E-max or layered zirconia suits front teeth for a natural look. The best option depends on tooth position, bite and budget.
How much does a zirconia implant crown cost?
Zirconia crowns typically run about $1,000–$2,700, and choosing zirconia can add roughly $500–$1,500 to an implant total compared with lower-cost options. Prices vary by practice and lab.
Is porcelain-fused-to-metal still a good choice?
It can be, especially for back teeth and lower budgets, at about $800–$2,000. It can show a dark metal line at the gum and the porcelain may chip, so it is often avoided for front teeth.
How long do implant crowns last?
Often 10–15 years or more, depending on material, bite and care, and many are replaced sooner or later. The implant post usually outlasts the crown, so budget for an eventual replacement.
Is E-max strong enough for an implant?
It is often used on front teeth and some premolars for its natural look, but it is less strong than zirconia. Your dentist may recommend zirconia for back teeth with heavy chewing forces.
Does the quote include the crown material?
It should. Ask which material is quoted, because it can change the total by hundreds of dollars, and request a price for any alternative you want to compare.
Keep reading
Sources and how we calculated these numbers
Crown prices come from published 2026 US benchmarks for dental crowns, and the zirconia upgrade comes from a national implant cost roundup. Figures are rounded for planning. Last reviewed October 21, 2026. See our methodology.