The High Cost of Dental Crowns – and How to Beat It
If you’ve ever needed a dental crown, you’ve probably felt the shock of the price tag. With costs ranging from $800 to $3,000 per tooth, even with insurance, it’s no small expense. The question on your mind is, how much does a crown cost with insurance? And more importantly, how can you save money on dental crowns—even if you don’t have insurance?
We’ve got the answers, and we’ll introduce a game-changing way to save: in-office membership plans and The Patient Marketplace.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost with Insurance?
The cost of a dental crown depends on several factors, including:
- Type of Crown Material: Porcelain, metal, zirconia, or ceramic.
- Insurance Coverage: Most dental insurance plans cover 50% of the cost after meeting the deductible.
- Dentist’s Fees: Location and expertise of the dentist impact pricing.
- Additional Procedures: If you need a root canal or gum treatments, the total price increases.
| Crown Type | Average Cost (Without Insurance) | Estimated Cost (With 50% Insurance Coverage) |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | $1,000 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,250 |
| Metal | $800 – $1,500 | $400 – $750 |
| Zirconia | $1,200 – $3,000 | $600 – $1,500 |
| Ceramic | $1,000 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,250 |
Important Tip: Insurance rarely covers 100% of crown costs, so you’ll still have out-of-pocket expenses.
The Hidden Costs of Dental Crowns Insurance Won’t Cover
Even with insurance, you might face: ✅ Annual Maximums – Most dental plans cap coverage at $1,000 – $1,500 per year. ✅ Waiting Periods – Many policies require a 6 to 12-month wait before covering major procedures like crowns. ✅ Exclusions for Cosmetic Crowns – If a crown is for cosmetic reasons, insurance won’t cover it.
Solution? Cut your costs with a dental membership plan.
How to Save on Dental Crowns WITHOUT Insurance
Did you know that you can save up to 60% on dental work without insurance? Here’s how:
1. Join an In-Office Membership Plan
Many dental offices offer membership plans where, for a small monthly fee, you get:
- Discounted dental crowns (often 20-60% off)
- Free cleanings & exams
- No waiting periods or maximums
Where to Find These Plans? Check out The Patient Marketplace—a platform connecting patients to affordable dentists with membership plans.
2. Get Treatment at a Dental School
Dental schools often offer discounted procedures performed by students under expert supervision. The savings can be as much as 50% off.
3. Negotiate Directly with Your Dentist
Surprisingly, many dentists offer cash discounts. Ask if they provide: ✔ Payment plans ✔ Cash-pay discounts ✔ Bundled treatment discounts
4. Use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
If you have an HSA or FSA, you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for a dental crown—saving you 20-30%.
5. Compare Prices at Different Clinics
Not all dentists charge the same. Use The Patient Marketplace to compare local prices and find affordable, quality care.
Real Story: How One Patient Saved $1,200 on a Dental Crown
Meet Sarah, a 35-year-old mom who needed a zirconia crown but was quoted $2,000 by her dentist. Her insurance only covered $750, leaving her with a $1,250 bill.
Instead, she: ✅ Joined a membership plan at a local dental office for $25/month. ✅ Got the same zirconia crown for just $800—a $1,200 total savings! ✅ Avoided the insurance waiting period.
Moral of the story? Sometimes membership plans beat insurance for major procedures.
Take Action: Save on Your Next Dental Crown
If you’re looking for the best way to save on a dental crown, here’s your plan:
Check your insurance policy – See what’s covered and what’s not.
Search for in-office membership plans – Get up to 60% off crowns with no waiting periods.
Compare dental prices on The Patient Marketplace – Find a cost-effective dentist near you.
Ask about cash-pay discounts – Dentists often lower prices for upfront payments.
Consider a dental school – Lower prices, same high-quality care.
Start saving today! Visit The Patient Marketplace and find affordable dental care near you.
Final Thought: Don’t Overpay for a Crown
Now that you know the true cost of a crown with insurance, take control of your dental expenses. Use membership plans, price comparisons, and smart strategies to get the best care at the best price.
Have questions? Drop a comment below!
