Concerned About the Cost of a Dental Crown? Here’s How to Save
If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you might be feeling sticker shock at the price. Crowns are one of the most effective ways to restore a damaged tooth, but they can also be expensive—especially without insurance.
The good news? There are ways to lower your out-of-pocket costs so you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability.
This guide will cover:
✔ The average cost of a dental crown
✔ How to reduce expenses with insurance
✔ Ways to find affordable crowns without insurance
✔ The best-kept secret: membership plans for instant savings
And if you’re looking for the best dental crown prices near you, check out The Patient Marketplace—a platform that connects patients with budget-friendly dentists offering discounts and payment plans.
Let’s explore your options!
1. How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
The cost of a dental crown depends on factors like:
✔ The type of material used (porcelain, metal, zirconia, etc.)
✔ The dentist’s location and expertise
✔ Whether additional procedures are needed (root canal, X-rays)
Average Cost of a Dental Crown (Without Insurance)
| Crown Type | Cost Per Tooth |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Did you know? If you need multiple crowns, the total cost could exceed $5,000 or more—which is why finding ways to reduce expenses is crucial.
2. How to Save on the Cost of a Dental Crown With Insurance
If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover a portion of the cost of a crown. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
✔ Coverage Varies – Most insurance plans cover 50% of the cost after meeting your deductible.
✔ Annual Maximums Apply – Many policies have a yearly spending cap ($1,000 – $1,500), which may not fully cover the cost of a crown.
✔ Pre-Authorization Is Required – Some insurance companies require pre-approval before covering a crown.
✔ Choose an In-Network Dentist – Visiting an in-network provider can lower costs significantly.
Pro Tip: If your insurance only covers part of the cost, pairing it with a membership plan can help you save even more.
3. How to Get a Low-Cost Dental Crown Without Insurance
If you don’t have insurance, the cost of a crown can feel overwhelming—but there are several ways to cut costs.
Best Ways to Save on a Dental Crown Without Insurance
✔ Compare Prices at Multiple Dentists – Costs vary widely between providers, so shop around for the best deal.
✔ Ask About Cash Discounts – Some dentists offer lower prices for upfront payments.
✔ Visit a Dental School – Dental students (under supervision) provide low-cost crowns at accredited schools.
✔ Use a Payment Plan – Many offices allow monthly payments instead of requiring full payment upfront.
Best Option: The most effective way to save on crowns and other major dental work is to join a dental membership plan, which provides instant discounts on procedures.
4. The Ultimate Money-Saving Strategy: Dental Membership Plans
What Is a Dental Membership Plan?
A dental membership plan is NOT insurance—it’s an alternative solution that provides discounted prices on crowns, cleanings, exams, and more.
Instead of paying high monthly premiums for traditional insurance, you pay a small annual or monthly fee for instant savings at a participating dentist.
Benefits of a Membership Plan:
✔ NO deductibles, waiting periods, or paperwork
✔ 20-50% off dental crowns, exams, and other treatments
✔ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
✔ Ideal for uninsured patients needing affordable care
How a Patient Saved $2,000 on a Dental Crown
Meet Samantha, a teacher who needed a porcelain crown but was quoted $2,800—far 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, Samantha saved:
✔ 40% off her dental crown
✔ FREE cleanings and exams
✔ Hundreds of dollars on future treatments
Her total crown cost dropped to $1,200, saving her $2,000 instantly!
Want to see how much YOU could save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist offering membership plans near you.
5. Why Waiting Could Cost You More
Postponing a dental crown can lead to bigger, costlier problems, such as:
Tooth decay worsening, requiring a root canal (which costs an extra $800 – $2,500).
A cracked tooth worsening, leading to extraction and a dental implant (which costs $3,000 – $6,000).
Gum infections and further oral health complications.
Getting a crown now can save you thousands later!
6. Find an Affordable Dental Crown Near You
A dental crown is crucial for restoring and protecting a damaged tooth, but it shouldn’t empty your wallet. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need financing options, you have affordable choices:
Best for insured patients: Use your benefits & choose an in-network dentist.
Best for uninsured patients: Look for cash discounts & dental schools.
Best for major savings: Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.
Ready to get your dental crown at an affordable price? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a budget-friendly, top-rated dentist near you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a dental 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 tend to be cheaper than porcelain or zirconia, but prices vary by provider.
Can I make payments on a dental crown?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or financing options to help make crowns more affordable.
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 restore your smile for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!
