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Cost of a Dental Crown: Pricing, Affordable Options, and How to Save

February 24, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

Cost of a Crown Tooth: How to Save Money With & Without Insurance

Meta Description: Wondering about the cost of a crown tooth? Learn how to get affordable dental crowns with insurance, without insurance, and through membership plans. Find budget-friendly options today!


Worried About the Cost of a Dental Crown? Here’s How to Save Money

A dental crown is one of the best ways to protect and restore a damaged tooth, but the high cost often leaves patients hesitant to proceed with treatment.

If you’ve been searching for an affordable way to get a crown, you’re in the right place.

This guide will break down:
How much a crown costs with and without insurance
Ways to reduce your dental bill
Why membership plans are the ultimate cost-saving solution

And the best part? You can find low-cost dental crowns near you through The Patient Marketplace—a platform that connects you with affordable, high-quality dentists offering discounted treatments.

Let’s explore your options!


1. Understanding the Cost of a Crown Tooth

The cost of a dental crown varies based on materials, location, and dentist fees. Here’s what you can expect:

Type of Crown Average Cost (Without Insurance)
Porcelain $800 – $3,000
Ceramic $850 – $2,500
Metal (Gold, Alloy) $900 – $2,500
Porcelain-fused-to-metal $800 – $2,500
Zirconia $1,000 – $3,500

Factors like additional procedures (root canals, impressions, anesthesia, etc.) can increase the total price.

The question is: How can you lower these costs?


2. How to Save on the Cost of a Crown With Insurance

If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover 50% or more of the cost of a crown. However, it’s important to check:

Annual Maximums – Many insurance plans have yearly limits of $1,000 – $1,500, which might not fully cover a crown.
Pre-Authorization Requirements – Some insurers require approval before covering crown costs.
In-Network Dentists – Choosing an in-network provider ensures you get the lowest negotiated rates.
Payment Plans – Some offices offer financing options for out-of-pocket costs.

Pro Tip: If your insurance only covers part of the cost, consider using a dental membership plan for additional savings.


3. How to Get an Affordable Crown Without Insurance

If you don’t have insurance, don’t panic—you still have several options to save money on a crown.

Ways to Save on a Crown Without Insurance

Compare Dentist Prices – The cost of a crown varies widely by location and provider. Calling multiple dentists can help you find the best deal.
Look for Discounted Cash Prices – Some dental offices offer lower prices for cash payments.
Visit a Dental School – Dental schools provide low-cost crown procedures performed by students under professional supervision.
Negotiate with Your Dentist – Some providers offer discounts or in-house financing for uninsured patients.

Best Option: The most reliable way to save on dental crowns is to join a membership plan, which provides immediate discounts on procedures.


4. The Ultimate Cost-Saving Secret: Dental Membership Plans

What Is a Dental Membership Plan?

A dental membership plan is a low-cost alternative to insurance that provides discounted prices on crowns, cleanings, exams, and more.

Instead of dealing with high monthly premiums, waiting periods, or claim denials, you pay a small annual or monthly fee and receive instant savings at a participating dentist.

Benefits of Dental Membership Plans:

NO deductibles, waiting periods, or claim rejections
20-50% savings on crowns, exams, and other treatments
Transparent pricing—no surprise fees
Perfect for uninsured patients looking for affordable care

How a Patient Saved $1,500 on a Crown

Meet Emily, a teacher who needed a porcelain dental crown but was quoted $2,400—more than she could afford.

A friend told her about The Patient Marketplace, where she found a dentist offering a membership plan.

For just $299 per year, Emily saved:
40% off her dental crown
FREE cleanings and check-ups
Hundreds of dollars on additional treatments

Her crown cost dropped to $1,200, saving her $1,500 instantly!

Want to see how much YOU could save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist offering membership plans near you.


5. Why You Shouldn’t Wait – The Hidden Cost of Delaying a Crown

Ignoring a damaged tooth can lead to serious problems, including:

Further tooth decay requiring a root canal or extraction (which costs even more).
Weakened teeth leading to painful fractures.
Gum infections and bone loss if left untreated.

The sooner you get a crown, the more money you’ll save by avoiding bigger procedures.


Find an Affordable Dental Crown Near You Today

You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to get a high-quality dental crown. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or are looking for a budget-friendly option, you can cut costs significantly:

Best for insurance holders: Use your benefits & find an in-network dentist.
Best for uninsured patients: Explore cash discounts & dental schools.
Best for major savings: Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.

Ready to restore your smile for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace and find a top-rated, affordable dentist today!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a crown cost without insurance?

Without insurance, a dental crown costs between $800 and $3,500, depending on the material and location.

What is the cheapest type of dental crown?

Metal crowns are typically cheaper than porcelain or zirconia, but prices vary by provider.

Can I make payments on a dental crown?

Yes! Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options for crowns.

Are membership plans better than dental insurance?

For many patients, YES! Membership plans provide instant savings with no waiting periods or paperwork hassles.

Where can I find an affordable dental crown near me?

Visit The Patient Marketplace to find discounted crown prices in your area.

How long do dental crowns last?

With proper care, a dental crown can last 10-15 years or longer.


Final Thoughts – Get an Affordable Dental Crown Today!

A dental crown is an essential investment in your oral health, but it shouldn’t break the bank. By using insurance benefits, shopping for discounts, or joining a membership plan, you can cut your crown costs in half.

Ready to book your affordable dental crown? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!

Save on Dental, Optometry & Wellness

Dental & vision insurance are not the best options if you want to truly save on dental work or vision care. Search our listings of vetted prctices that can help you save money!

Jordon Comstock

Author Bio

Jordon Comstock is the Founder & CEO of BoomCloud™, a software that allows practice, clinic & spa owners to build, manage and scale a membership program. Jordon loves helping patients save on care & writing tips in dentistry, optometry and the spa industries. Jordon is passionate about music, Hawaii, Healthcare businesses like: dentistry, optometry, med spas and massage spas.