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How Much Is a Tooth Crown? Cost Breakdown & Affordable Solutions

February 24, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

How Much Is a Tooth Crown? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you have a damaged, broken, or severely decayed tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to restore its shape, strength, and function. But before committing to treatment, you’re probably asking:

How much is a tooth crown?
Will my insurance cover it?
Are there ways to make it more affordable?

The good news? Tooth crowns don’t have to be expensive! Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need a flexible payment plan, there are affordable solutions available.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
The cost (with & without insurance)
Types and their price differences
Ways to save money on a dental crown
How to find affordable dental clinics near you

And if you’re looking for discounted dental crowns, check out The Patient Marketplace—a platform that connects you with dentists offering membership plans and flexible payment options.

Let’s break down the costs!


1. How Much?

The cost varies depending on:
The type of material used (porcelain, metal, zirconia, etc.)
The dentist’s location and expertise
Whether additional procedures (like a root canal) are required
Your dental insurance coverage

Average Cost (Per Tooth)

Type Cost Without Insurance
Porcelain Crown (All-Ceramic) $800 – $3,000
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) $800 – $2,500
Zirconia Crown (Highly Durable) $1,000 – $3,500
Gold or Metal Crown $900 – $2,500
E-Max Crown (Premium Porcelain) $1,200 – $3,500

Did you know? If you need a root canal before, expect additional costs of $800 – $2,500 per tooth.


2. How to Save With Insurance

If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover a significant portion of your tooth crown cost.

How Insurance Can Lower Your Costs

Covers 50-80% of the cost for medically necessary crowns
Annual maximums apply (typically $1,000 – $1,500 per year)
Pre-authorization may be required before your insurance approves coverage
Choosing an in-network dentist may result in lower costs

Pro Tip: Some insurance plans only cover metal crowns on back teeth but not porcelain crowns on front teeth—always check your policy!


3. How to Get an Affordable Tooth Crown Without Insurance

If you don’t have dental insurance, getting a tooth crown might seem expensive—but there are ways to reduce the cost.

Best Ways to Save Without Insurance

Find a Dental Membership Plan – Many dentists offer discounted crowns through in-office membership programs.
Visit a Dental School – Accredited dental schools provide low-cost crowns under professional supervision.
Compare Prices at Different Dentists – Prices vary, so calling multiple offices can help you find the best deal.
Ask About Payment Plans – Many dental offices offer low-interest or no-interest financing options.

Best Option: The most effective way to save money on a tooth crown is to join a dental membership plan, which provides instant discounts on restorative treatments.


4. The Secret to Affordable Tooth Crowns: Membership Plans

What Is a Dental Membership Plan?

A dental membership plan is NOT insurance—it’s a low-cost savings program that provides discounted rates on crowns, cleanings, exams, and other treatments.

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 waiting periods, deductibles, or claim rejections
20-50% off tooth crowns and other treatments
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Ideal for uninsured patients needing affordable dental care

How a Patient Saved $900

Meet Michael, a small business owner who needed a porcelain crown but was quoted $1,800—more than he could afford.

A friend told him about The Patient Marketplace, where he found a dentist offering a membership plan.

For just $299 per year, Michael saved:
40% off his tooth crown
FREE check-ups and exams
Discounts on future treatments

His total crown cost dropped to $900, saving him $900 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 to Get a Tooth Crown Can Cost You More

Avoiding a tooth crown due to cost concerns can lead to:

Further tooth decay, requiring a root canal ($800 – $2,500) or extraction ($75 – $400).
Weakening of the tooth, leading to costly implants ($3,000 – $6,000).
Pain, sensitivity, and higher future treatment costs.

Getting a tooth crown now can save you thousands in future dental bills!


6. Find an Affordable Tooth Crown Near You

A tooth crown is essential for restoring your smile and protecting damaged teeth, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need financing options, you have affordable choices:

Best for insured patients: Maximize benefits & choose an in-network provider.
Best for uninsured patients: Look for dental schools, membership plans & cash discounts.
Best for major savings: Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.

Ready to get your tooth 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 is a tooth crown without insurance?

Without insurance, a tooth crown costs between $800 and $3,500, depending on the type and location.

What is the cheapest type of dental crown?

Metal crowns are usually cheaper than porcelain or zirconia crowns, but they may not look as natural.

Can I finance a tooth crown?

Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or financing options to help make crowns more affordable.

Where can I find an affordable tooth crown near me?

Visit The Patient Marketplace to find discounted tooth crown prices in your area.


Final Thoughts – Get an Affordable Tooth Crown Today!

Ready to restore your smile for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!

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Jordon Comstock

Author Bio

Jordon Comstock is the Founder & CEO of BoomCloud™, a software that allows practice, clinic & spa owners to build, manage and scale a membership program. Jordon loves helping patients save on care & writing tips in dentistry, optometry and the spa industries. Jordon is passionate about music, Hawaii, Healthcare businesses like: dentistry, optometry, med spas and massage spas.