Affordable Solutions for High Dental Crown Prices
The High Cost of Dental Crowns and How to Save
A damaged or decayed tooth can be painful and embarrassing, but the cost of a dental crown can make the solution feel just as painful. Whether you need a crown to protect a weakened tooth, restore a broken one, or enhance your smile, crown prices can vary widely—ranging from $800 to $3,500 per tooth.
The good news? There are ways to save money, even if you don’t have dental insurance. By exploring dental membership plans, financing options, and discount programs, you can make your dental care more affordable.
Understanding Dental Crown Prices
Several factors affect how much a dental crown costs, including:
✔️ Material Type – The choice of porcelain, zirconia, metal, or gold affects pricing.
✔️ Insurance Coverage – Plans typically cover 50% of the cost after deductibles.
✔️ Dentist’s Location – Prices are higher in cities than in rural areas.
✔️ Additional Procedures – Root canals, x-rays, and tooth buildups add to the total cost.
Breakdown of Dental Crown Prices by Type
| Crown Type | Average Cost Per Tooth | Cost With Insurance (50% Coverage) |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | $900 – $2,500 | $450 – $1,250 |
| Zirconia | $1,000 – $3,500 | $500 – $1,750 |
| Gold/Metal | $1,200 – $2,500 | $600 – $1,250 |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $850 – $2,500 | $425 – $1,250 |
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the crown price, here are other costs that may be involved:
X-rays ($50 – $200) – Required to assess the tooth and surrounding bone.
Tooth Buildup ($100 – $500) – If the existing tooth needs extra support.
Root Canal ($700 – $1,500) – Needed if the tooth has an infection.
Temporary Crown ($100 – $300) – Used while waiting for the permanent crown.
How to Save on Crown Prices With and Without Insurance
If dental crown prices seem too high, don’t worry—there are several ways to cut costs.
1. Enroll in a Dental Membership Plan
One of the best ways to save money on dental crowns is by signing up for an in-office membership plan. These affordable plans allow you to pay a small monthly fee in exchange for discounted rates on crown procedures and other treatments.
No waiting periods or deductibles.
Save 20-50% on dental crowns instantly.
No annual maximums—use it whenever needed.
✅ Example: Mark needed a zirconia crown that cost $1,500. Insurance covered 50%, leaving him with a $750 bill. By using a membership plan, he saved an extra 30% on his out-of-pocket cost, reducing it to $525.
Find a dentist offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Use an HSA or FSA
A Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows you to use pre-tax dollars to cover out-of-pocket costs for dental crowns.
3. Visit a Dental School
Dental schools provide low-cost crowns, performed by students under supervision, at a 30-50% discount compared to private clinics.
4. Compare Prices Between Dentists
Not all dentists charge the same price. Call multiple offices and request quotes—this alone could save you hundreds of dollars.
5. Consider Dental Tourism
For those willing to travel, dental tourism can cut crown prices by 50-70%.
Mexico – Crowns start at $300
Thailand – Crowns start at $400
Costa Rica – Crowns start at $500
6. Look Into Payment Plans & Financing
Many dentists offer 0% interest financing through CareCredit or in-office payment plans, allowing you to spread out payments over several months.
Is a Dental Crown Worth the Cost?
Skipping a necessary dental crown can lead to severe complications, such as:
Further tooth fractures requiring extractions.
Painful root infections needing more costly procedures.
The need for dental implants ($3,000–$6,000 per tooth).
Investing in a dental crown now can prevent higher expenses later.
Find Affordable Dental Care Through The Patient Marketplace
If you’re struggling to afford a dental crown, check out The Patient Marketplace. This platform connects you with dentists offering membership plans, making crowns more affordable—even without insurance.
FAQs
How much does a crown cost?
Crown prices range from $800 to $3,500 per tooth, depending on the material and location.
Can insurance fully cover the cost of a crown?
Most insurance plans cover 50% of the cost, meaning you still have to pay out-of-pocket expenses.
What is the most affordable type of dental crown?
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are often the most affordable option, starting at $850.
How long do crowns last?
Most crowns last 10-15 years, depending on oral hygiene and wear.
Can I make monthly payments for a crown?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or CareCredit financing to split the cost into smaller payments.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are a valuable investment in your oral health, but crown prices can be expensive. To maximize your savings, consider dental membership plans, discount programs, and flexible financing options.
Looking for an affordable dentist? Visit The Patient Marketplace today!
Inbound Links:
- How to Save Money on Dental Crowns
- Best Alternatives to Dental Insurance
- Affordable Dental Membership Plans
