Understanding Pricing, Insurance, and Affordable Options for Dental Crowns
Considering a Porcelain Crown? Here’s What You Need to Know
If your dentist has recommended a porcelain crown, you may be wondering:
✔️ How much are?
✔️ Why do they cost more than other materials?
✔️ Are there affordable ways to get a porcelain crown?
Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural look and durability, making them an excellent choice for restoring damaged teeth. However, they can be expensive, especially without insurance.
The good news? There are ways to save money on high-quality porcelain crowns while maintaining your smile’s beauty and function. Let’s break down the cost of porcelain, insurance coverage, and how to lower your expenses.
How Much?
The cost of a porcelain dental crown varies based on materials, location, and additional procedures.
Average Cost of Porcelain
| Type | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance (50% Coverage) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-Porcelain | $1,000 – $2,500 per tooth | $500 – $1,250 per tooth | 10-15 years |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $800 – $1,500 per tooth | $400 – $750 per tooth | 10-15 years |
| Zirconia (Metal-Free, Highly Durable) | $1,200 – $3,000 per tooth | $600 – $1,500 per tooth | 15-25 years |
| Gold or Metal | $900 – $2,500 per tooth | $450 – $1,250 per tooth | 20+ years |
| Temporary Resin | $200 – $600 per tooth | $100 – $300 per tooth | 6 months – 2 years |
Tip: All-porcelain crowns look the most natural and are best for front teeth, while PFM and zirconia crowns offer additional strength for molars.
Why Is Porcelain More Expensive?
Porcelain cost more than other types of dental crowns due to:
High-Quality Aesthetic Appeal – Porcelain mimics natural teeth better than metal crowns.
Customization & Lab Work – Each crown is custom-designed for a perfect fit and color match.
Durability & Longevity – Porcelain crowns last longer than composite or resin crowns.
Material Costs – Dental-grade porcelain is strong, stain-resistant, and biocompatible.
Tip: While porcelain crowns cost more upfront, they are a long-term investment in your dental health and smile.
Does Insurance Cover Porcelain?
Many dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of the cost of porcelain crowns, but coverage depends on:
✔️ Medical Necessity vs. Cosmetic Use – Insurance only covers crowns needed for functional reasons, not for cosmetic purposes.
✔️ Annual Maximums – Most plans limit coverage to $1,000 – $2,000 per year.
✔️ Waiting Periods – Some plans require a 6-12 month waiting period before covering crowns.
Example: Sarah’s porcelain crown cost $1,500, but her insurance covered 50%, reducing her total bill to $750.
Tip: If you don’t have insurance, there are still affordable ways to get a porcelain crown!
How to Save Money on Porcelain Without Insurance
If dental crown costs seem too high, here are ways to reduce your expenses:
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan is an affordable alternative to insurance, offering discounted rates on crowns and other treatments.
✅ No waiting periods or deductibles.
✅ Instant savings of 20-50% on dental crowns.
✅ No annual maximum—use it whenever needed.
Example: Mark needed a porcelain crown costing $2,000. Thanks to his membership plan, he saved 40%, lowering his bill to $1,200.
Find affordable dental crowns at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Look for Dental Discount Plans
Dental discount plans offer reduced pricing on all dental treatments, including porcelain crowns.
✔️ Provide 10-60% off procedures
✔️ Require an annual membership fee
✔️ Work at participating dental offices
Example: A dental discount plan lowered Brian’s crown cost from $2,500 to $1,600, saving him $900 instantly.
3. Visit a Dental School for Lower Prices
Dental schools offer low-cost dental services, performed by students under licensed dentist supervision. You can expect:
✔️ High-quality care at up to 50% lower prices
✔️ Longer appointment times but significant savings
Example: A dental school charged $1,000 instead of $2,000 for Lisa’s porcelain crown.
4. Compare Prices & Negotiate With Dentists
Not all dentists charge the same! Call multiple offices and ask about:
New patient specials
Cash discounts for upfront payments
In-office financing options
Example: Sarah saved $400 by choosing a dentist who offered a new patient discount.
5. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing Options
Many dentists offer interest-free financing through third-party providers like:
✔️ CareCredit
✔️ LendingClub
✔️ In-house payment plans
Example: Emily financed her $2,500 porcelain over 12 months with zero interest, making it affordable at just $208/month.
Find an Affordable Dentist Offering Discounts on Porcelain
If you’re searching for affordable porcelain , visit The Patient Marketplace to find budget-friendly dentistsoffering:
✔️ Discounted membership plans.
✔️ Flexible financing options.
✔️ Affordable, high-quality porcelain crowns.
FAQs
How long do crowns last?
✔️ Porcelain crowns: 10-15 years
✔️ Zirconia crowns: 15-25 years
Can I finance my crown?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or financing to help spread out the cost.
Is it cheaper to get a crown abroad?
Some people choose dental tourism for cheaper crowns, but quality and safety should always be considered.
Restore your smile for less! Find an affordable porcelain crown provider today at The Patient Marketplace!
