How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, your first thought might be: “How much will this cost me?”
Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative dental procedures, but prices can vary widely based on location, material, and whether or not you have insurance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost for a crown, explain what affects the price, and show you how to save thousands—even without insurance.
Average Cost for a Crown: Price Breakdown
The cost of a dental crown depends on the material used and whether any additional procedures (like a root canal) are required.
Average Cost for a Crown by Material
| Type of Crown | Cost Per Tooth (Without Insurance) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain (Ceramic) | $800 – $3,000 | 10-15 years |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $700 – $1,500 | 5-15 years |
| Gold or Metal Alloy | $900 – $2,500 | 20+ years |
| Zirconia | $1,000 – $2,500 | 15-20 years |
| Composite Resin | $300 – $1,200 | 5-10 years |
Pro Tip: Porcelain crowns look the most natural, while gold and zirconia crowns last the longest.
What Affects the Cost of a Dental Crown?
Several factors determine how much you’ll pay for a dental crown:
✔ Type of Material – Porcelain and zirconia cost more than metal or composite.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – A specialist or cosmetic dentist may charge higher fees.
✔ Location – Major metro areas have higher prices than rural areas.
✔ Additional Procedures – If you need a root canal, tooth extraction, or buildup, expect added costs.
✔ Insurance Coverage – Some plans cover part of the cost, but others don’t.
Good news! Even if you don’t have insurance, there are ways to save—keep reading!
How to Save Money on a Dental Crown (With or Without Insurance)
1. Use Dental Insurance (If Available)
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of crown costs, but it depends on your provider.
✅ Check Your Coverage – Some plans cover 50-80% of the cost after meeting the deductible.
✅ Use Your Annual Maximum – Insurance policies typically cap benefits at $1,500–$2,000 per year—spread out treatment if needed.
✅ Ask About In-Network Dentists – Seeing a dentist in your plan’s network can reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Tip: If insurance doesn’t cover enough, a dental membership plan may help you save even more!
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers instant discounts on crowns and other treatments—without the restrictions of insurance.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get 30–50% off procedures like crowns.
- No waiting periods, no claim denials—just instant savings.
Example Savings:
| Procedure | Without Membership | With Membership | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Crown | $1,500 | $900 | $600 |
| Gold Crown | $2,500 | $1,500 | $1,000 |
Find a dentist offering membership discounts at ThePatientMarketplace.com.
3. Get Your Crown from a Dental School
Dental schools offer discounted crowns because students perform the procedure under expert supervision.
Potential Savings: 30-50% off traditional prices!
4. Consider Dental Tourism
Some patients save 50-70% by getting crowns in Mexico, Costa Rica, or Thailand.
Pro Tip: Research clinics, read reviews, and verify the dentist’s credentials before booking your appointment.
5. Use a Financing Plan
If you can’t afford to pay upfront, many dentists offer low-interest or 0% financing.
Popular Financing Options:
✔ CareCredit – 0% interest for 6-24 months
✔ LendingClub – Low-interest monthly payments
✔ In-House Payment Plans – Many dentists offer custom financing options
Example: Instead of paying $1,500 upfront, you can pay $125/month over 12 months.
A Real Success Story: How Mike Saved $800 on a Crown
Mike, a 45-year-old teacher, needed a porcelain crown but was shocked by the $1,500 price tag.
Determined to find a more affordable option, he:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing his cost by 40%.
✔ Used financing, making low monthly payments.
✔ Found a discounted provider on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $700—saving him $800!
Lesson learned: You CAN get high-quality crowns without overpaying!
Take Action: Get an Affordable Dental Crown Today
If you need a crown but don’t want to overpay, here’s what to do next:
✅ Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com to compare crown prices near you.
✅ Ask about a membership plan to save up to 50%.
✅ Apply for financing to break the cost into monthly payments.
A healthy smile is an investment—start today!
FAQs About the Average Cost for a Crown
How much does a dental crown cost without insurance?
Expect to pay between $800 and $3,000 per tooth, depending on the material.
Does insurance cover crowns?
Many dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of the cost, but coverage depends on your provider.
Which type of crown lasts the longest?
Gold and zirconia crowns last 20+ years, while porcelain crowns last 10-15 years.
Are there cheaper alternatives to crowns?
Yes! Consider dental bonding or inlays/onlays for minor repairs at a lower cost.
Can I finance a dental crown?
Absolutely! Many dentists offer 0% interest financing and affordable payment plans.
Final Thoughts: Get the Best Dental Crown Without Overpaying
Dental crowns don’t have to be expensive. With membership plans, financing, and discount providers, you can restore your smile without breaking the bank.
Find affordable crowns now at ThePatientMarketplace.com!
