What You Need to Know About Saving on Dental Crowns
The High Cost of Dental Crowns and the Role of Insurance
Dental crowns are an essential solution for protecting and restoring damaged teeth. But if you’ve ever checked the price of a crown, you know it’s not cheap.
The average crown cost with insurance typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 per tooth, depending on your coverage, materials, and dental provider. While insurance helps reduce costs, many patients still face high out-of-pocket expenses.
The good news? You can save even more by utilizing in-office membership plans, discount programs, and smart financing options.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost With Insurance?
The cost of a crown with insurance depends on several factors:
✔️ Type of Crown – Porcelain, zirconia, metal, or PFM affect pricing.
✔️ Insurance Coverage – Most plans cover 50% of the cost after meeting the deductible.
✔️ Annual Maximums – Many plans cap yearly coverage at $1,000–$2,000.
✔️ Location – Dental costs vary by state and city.
Breakdown of Dental Crown Costs With Insurance
| Type of Crown | Full Price | Cost With 50% Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | $900–$2,500 | $450–$1,250 |
| Zirconia | $1,000–$3,000 | $500–$1,500 |
| Gold/Metal | $1,200–$2,500 | $600–$1,250 |
| PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) | $850–$2,500 | $425–$1,250 |
What Insurance Covers for a Dental Crown
Most dental insurance plans partially cover crowns, but coverage depends on your specific policy:
Basic Dental Insurance – Covers 50% of the cost, leaving the rest out-of-pocket.
Comprehensive Plans – Offer better coverage but often have higher premiums.
Waiting Periods – Some plans require a 6-12 month waiting period before covering crowns.
Example: If your crown costs $1,200 and insurance covers 50%, you’ll still pay $600 out-of-pocket—not including deductibles or annual maximums.
How to Reduce Crown Costs Even With Insurance
Even with insurance, dental crowns can still be expensive. Here are the best ways to save even more:
1. Enroll in a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan is a cost-effective alternative to traditional insurance. These in-office discount programshelp you save 20-50% on crowns and other procedures.
No waiting periods or deductibles.
Instant discounts on crowns, cleanings, and fillings.
Affordable monthly or yearly membership fees.
✅ Example: Emily needed a porcelain crown costing $1,200. Insurance covered 50%, leaving her with a $600 bill. By using a membership plan, she saved an extra 30% on her out-of-pocket cost, paying only $420 instead of $600.
Find affordable dentists offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Use an HSA or FSA
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can use these tax-free funds to cover your out-of-pocket costs for a dental crown.
3. Visit a Dental School
Many dental schools offer crowns at reduced prices. These procedures are performed by students under professional supervision and can cut your bill by 30-50%.
4. Compare Dental Prices
Not all dentists charge the same. Calling multiple offices for price quotes can save you hundreds of dollars. Look for providers who offer cash discounts or payment plans.
5. Consider Dental Tourism
If you need multiple crowns, you might save thousands by traveling abroad for treatment.
Mexico – Crowns from $300
Thailand – Crowns from $400
Costa Rica – Crowns from $500
6. Use a Payment Plan
Many dentists offer 0% interest financing through programs like CareCredit, allowing you to pay for your dental crown in affordable monthly installments.
Is It Worth Getting a Crown With Insurance?
A dental crown protects your tooth and prevents more costly problems down the road. If you skip getting a crown, you could face:
Severe tooth fractures.
Expensive root canals.
Complete tooth loss requiring an implant.
Even with insurance, costs can add up. That’s why combining insurance with membership plans and discount programs is the best way to maximize savings.
Find Affordable Dental Care With The Patient Marketplace
If you’re struggling to afford a dental crown, check out The Patient Marketplace. They connect patients with dentists offering membership plans, making crowns more affordable—even with insurance.
FAQs
How much does a crown cost with insurance?
With insurance, crowns typically cost $500 to $1,500 per tooth, depending on the material and coverage percentage.
Does dental insurance fully cover crowns?
No, most insurance plans only cover 50%, meaning you still have to pay out-of-pocket expenses.
What’s the cheapest way to get a crown with insurance?
The best ways to reduce crown costs with insurance include:
✔️ Using a dental membership plan.
✔️ Visiting a dental school for a lower-cost procedure.
✔️ Applying for a discount dental plan.
Do all insurance plans cover dental crowns?
Not always. Some basic plans exclude crowns or have long waiting periods before coverage starts.
How long do crowns last?
A well-maintained crown can last 10-15 years, depending on the material and oral hygiene.
Can I make payments on a crown?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or CareCredit financing to spread out the cost.
Final Thoughts
A dental crown is a smart investment in your oral health, but even with insurance, it can be costly. To maximize savings, consider dental membership plans, discount programs, and smart financing options.
Ready to save on your dental care? Find an affordable dentist today at The Patient Marketplace!
Inbound Links:
- How to Save on Dental Crowns
- Best Alternatives to Dental Insurance
- Affordable Dental Membership Plans
