How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost with Insurance?
If your dentist tells you that you need a dental crown, you may feel overwhelmed by the potential cost.
- How much will a crown cost with insurance?
- What portion does my insurance actually cover?
- Are there ways to lower my out-of-pocket cost even further?
The good news is that insurance can significantly reduce the cost of a crown—but the exact amount you pay depends on your plan, your provider, and the type of crown you choose.
This guide will break down the average cost of a crown with insurance, how different insurance plans affect pricing, and how to save even more—whether you have insurance or not.
What’s the Average Cost of a Crown with Insurance?
A dental crown typically costs $800 – $3,000 per tooth without insurance. However, most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of the cost, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
Average Cost of a Crown with Insurance (50% – 80% Coverage)
| Type of Crown | Without Insurance | With 50% Coverage | With 80% Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain (Ceramic) | $800 – $3,000 | $400 – $1,500 | $160 – $600 |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $700 – $1,500 | $350 – $750 | $140 – $300 |
| Gold or Metal Alloy | $900 – $2,500 | $450 – $1,250 | $180 – $500 |
| Zirconia | $1,000 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,250 | $200 – $500 |
| Composite Resin | $300 – $1,200 | $150 – $600 | $60 – $240 |
Pro Tip: Porcelain crowns offer the most natural look, while gold and zirconia crowns last the longest.
How Much Does Insurance Cover for a Crown?
The amount your insurance covers depends on your specific plan. Here’s what you need to know:
✔ Most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of a crown’s cost.
✔ You may have to meet your annual deductible first (usually $50-$150).
✔ Many plans have an annual maximum ($1,500 – $2,000 per year).
Example: If your insurance covers 50% of a $1,500 crown, you’ll pay $750 out-of-pocket.
What Affects the Cost of a Dental Crown?
Even with insurance, several factors can impact how much you’ll pay:
✔ Type of Crown – Premium materials like zirconia or gold cost more than resin or PFM crowns.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – Specialists in prosthodontics or cosmetic dentistry charge higher fees.
✔ Additional Procedures – If you need a root canal or tooth buildup, the cost will increase.
✔ Insurance Plan Limits – If you’ve already used your annual max, you’ll pay more out-of-pocket.
✔ Location of the Dentist – Big cities have higher prices than rural areas.
Good news! Even if your insurance doesn’t cover the full cost, you can still save big—keep reading!
How to Save Money on a Crown (Even with Insurance)
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
If your insurance doesn’t cover enough, a dental membership plan can save you even more.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get 30–50% discounts on procedures like crowns.
- No waiting periods, no claim denials—just instant savings.
Example Savings with a Membership Plan:
| 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.
2. Visit a Dental School for a Low-Cost Crown
Many dental schools provide discounted crowns performed by student dentists under expert supervision.
Potential Savings: 30-50% off traditional prices!
3. Consider Dental Tourism
Patients often save 50-70% by getting crowns in Mexico, Costa Rica, or Thailand.
Pro Tip: Research clinics, read reviews, and verify credentials before booking!
4. Use a Financing Plan
If you can’t afford to pay upfront, many dentists offer low-interest or 0% financing.
Popular Financing Options:
✔ CareCredit – Interest-free 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 Alex Saved $1,000 on a Crown
Alex, a 35-year-old IT professional, needed a porcelain crown but was worried about the cost.
✔ His insurance covered 50% of a $1,500 crown, so his cost was $750.
✔ He joined a dental membership plan, reducing his cost by an extra 40%.
✔ He used financing, making affordable monthly payments.
Final cost? $500—saving him $1,000!
Lesson learned: Even with insurance, you can save even more with the right strategy!
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 of a Crown with Insurance
How much does a dental crown cost with insurance?
With 50-80% coverage, the average out-of-pocket cost is $160 – $1,500 per tooth.
Does insurance cover all types of crowns?
Most policies cover basic crowns (porcelain, PFM), but may not fully cover premium materials like zirconia or gold.
Can I get a crown for free with insurance?
It’s possible if you’ve met your deductible and have 100% coverage, but rare.
Can I finance a dental crown?
Yes! 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 insurance, membership plans, and financing, you can restore your smile without breaking the bank.
Find affordable crowns now at ThePatientMarketplace.com!
