Why are crowns so expensive?

Lab cost+Time: That is what you are paying for. A couple hundred dollar lab bill and the time for the dentist. I agree that some price their crowns too high and some would say other price them too low. You have to make informed decisions about who to see for your work. Consider quality in that decision as well.

Costs: Crowns are expensive because there are many costs that go into making one. First, there is the actual lab bill that the dentist must pay to have the crown made. Secondly, the dentist must use many expensive materials when the crown is prepped in the patients mouth. There is also the expense of the overhead of paying for the salary of the assistant(s) as well as the dentist's time.

Professional fees: A well fitting, properly made crown and/or bridge can last you a good ten to fifteen years, maybe more with proper maintenance. If your car lasted 125000 to 150000 miles with just oil changes, would you complain about the price you paid? Of course not. You'd say you got your money's worth. Analogy is the same.