Are Dental Crown Prices Draining Your Wallet? Here’s How to Save Big on dental crown prices!
Dental work is expensive. You know it, I know it, and if you’ve ever needed a dental crown, you’ve definitely felt the financial sting. Whether you’re insured, uninsured, or stuck in the gray area of high co-pays and deductibles, the cost of a dental crown prices can be overwhelming.
But what if I told you there’s a way to get the same high-quality treatment at a fraction of the price—without jumping through insurance hoops?
Let’s break it down.
The Real Cost of a Dental Crown (And Why It’s So Pricey)
Before we dive into money-saving strategies, let’s talk numbers. Dental crown prices vary widely, depending on materials, location, and whether you have insurance.
| Crown Type | Without Insurance | With Insurance (Average Co-pay) |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $800 – $1,500 | $300 – $800 |
| Ceramic (Zirconia, E-max) | $1,000 – $2,500 | $400 – $1,200 |
| Gold or Metal Alloy | $900 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,000 |
While insurance helps, it doesn’t always cover as much as you’d think—leaving many patients frustrated with unexpected costs.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to pay these full prices.
How to Save on Dental Crowns – Even Without Insurance
1. Consider a Dental Membership Plan (Instead of Insurance)
One of the best-kept secrets in the dental industry is in-office membership plans. Unlike traditional insurance, these plans are directly offered by dental offices and come with transparent pricing and significant savings.
Key Benefits of a Dental Membership Plan:
- Flat Annual Fee (as low as $99 – $300 per year)
- 50%+ Savings on Major Procedures
- No Deductibles, No Waiting Periods
- Covers Cleanings, X-Rays & Exams for Free
Where to Find One? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find dentists offering in-house membership plans near you.
2. Shop Around for Better Pricing
Prices for dental crowns vary even in the same city. Before settling on a provider:
- Get quotes from multiple dentists
- Look for dentists who offer in-house payment plans
- Ask about cash discounts
Pro Tip: Some dental offices match competitor pricing, so don’t hesitate to negotiate!
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Treatment
Many accredited dental schools offer high-quality care at a fraction of the cost. Licensed professionals oversee students, ensuring you receive safe, professional-grade treatment at 40-70% less than private practice rates.
Search for an ADA-accredited dental school near you for cost-effective treatment options.
4. Use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
If your employer offers an HSA or FSA, you can use pre-tax dollars to cover dental crown costs—saving 20-30% on the total price.
Pro Tip: Many people forget to use their FSA funds before they expire, so check your balance today!
What If You Have Insurance? Here’s How to Maximize Your Benefits
If you’re insured, don’t assume you’re automatically getting the best deal. Many insurance plans only cover 50% of a crown, leaving you to foot the rest of the bill.
Ways to Reduce Your Out-of-Pocket Costs:
✅ Verify Your Annual Maximum: Insurance companies cap how much they’ll cover per year—use it before it resets!
✅ Split Treatment Between Calendar Years: Start your procedure in December and finish in January to take advantage of two benefit periods.
✅ Negotiate Pre-Authorization with Your Dentist: Many offices can appeal insurance denials and fight for better coverage.
Real-Life Savings: How One Patient Cut Their Dental Crown Costs by 60%
Meet Sarah. She needed a porcelain crown, but her dentist quoted $1,200 out-of-pocket after insurance.
Instead of settling, she:
- Found a dentist offering a membership plan (saved $500+)
- Used an FSA account (saved 25%)
- Applied for a 0% interest payment plan through the office
Final cost? Just $480 instead of $1,200!
Take Action & Save on Your Dental Crown Today
The cost of a dental crown doesn’t have to break the bank. Explore your options, compare prices, and consider membership plans for significant savings.
Ready to save up to 60% on your dental crown?
Find an affordable dentist offering membership plans on The Patient Marketplace today.
Click Here to Start Saving!
