Need a Dental Crown? Here’s What to Expect
If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, you may be wondering:
- How much does a crown cost?
- Why do prices vary so much?
- Can I get an affordable dental crown without sacrificing quality?
The good news is that dental crowns don’t have to break the bank. Whether you have insurance or not, there are ways to get a high-quality crown at an affordable price.
This guide will break down the average cost of a dental crown, what affects pricing, and how you can save big on your dental treatment.
What Is the Average Cost of a Dental Crown?
The cost of a dental crown depends on the material used, dentist’s expertise, and your location.
Average Cost of a Dental 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 key factors determine how much you’ll pay for a dental crown:
✔ Type of Material – Porcelain and zirconia are more expensive than metal or composite crowns.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – Cosmetic dentists and specialists charge higher fees.
✔ Location of the Dentist – Dental crowns tend to be more expensive in urban areas than in smaller towns.
✔ Additional Procedures – If you need a root canal, tooth buildup, or gum treatment, the cost will increase.
✔ Insurance Coverage – Some policies cover a portion of the cost, while 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)
If the cost of a crown seems too high, don’t panic—there are ways to cut costs significantly.
1. Use Dental Insurance (If Available)
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the crown cost, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
✅ Check Your Coverage – Some insurance plans cover 50-80% of the cost of a crown after the deductible.
✅ Use Your Annual Maximum – Most policies provide $1,500–$2,000 per year for dental treatments.
✅ Choose an In-Network Dentist – Seeing a provider in your plan’s network ensures lower out-of-pocket expenses.
Tip: If insurance doesn’t fully cover your crown, a dental membership plan can help you save even more!
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers instant savings 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. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Crowns
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 top-rated clinics and read patient reviews before booking your trip!
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 – 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 Lisa Saved $800 on a Dental Crown
Lisa, a 45-year-old business owner, needed a porcelain crown but was shocked by the $1,500 price tag.
Determined to find a more affordable option, she:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing her cost by 40%.
✔ Used financing, making low monthly payments.
✔ Found a discounted provider on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $700—saving her $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 of a Dental 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?
Most 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.
Find affordable crowns now at ThePatientMarketplace.com!
