If you’re asking, “how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth?”, you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not imagining things when it comes to sticker shock. Dental crowns can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, and that can leave you feeling stressed, stuck, and unsure.
You’re juggling questions like: Will insurance cover it? Is there a better plan? Can I save without sacrificing quality?
Here’s the good news: You can take control. Whether you have insurance, don’t have insurance, or want a membership plan that simplifies things, there is a path forward, one that gives you value, transparency, and peace of mind.
In this article, we’ll explore how much a crown typically costs, how to save with and without insurance, and why an in‑office membership plan via The Patient Marketplace is a game‑changer.
Let’s dive in and help you get the crown you need without the financial worry.
Understanding “how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth”
Before we talk savings, let’s get clear on what you’re up against. If you ask, how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth, the answer depends on several key factors: material, location, dentist’s experience, preparatory work, and whether you’ve got insurance.
Here’s what research shows:
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Without insurance, typical ranges for a single crown in the U.S. fall between $800 and $2,500 or more, depending on material and complexity. GoodRx+2Authority Dental+2
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Some lower cost ranges show around $500 to $1,500 for simpler or less aesthetic crowns. America Anesthesia Partners+1
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Insurance often covers only part of the cost (sometimes 50 % or less for major procedures) and may exclude crowns done purely for cosmetic reasons. Investopedia+1
So when you hear “$1,200 crown” or “$1,800 crown,” it starts to make sense. But remember: that price is just the start. There might be extra prep work (root canal, core build‑up, temporary crown) that adds to the bill. Authority Dental+1
In short: Asking how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth is valid, and you can expect a wide range. The real question becomes: How can you reduce what you pay?
Saving on a Crown With Insurance
If you’re lucky enough to already have dental insurance, great, you’ve got a head start. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still strategize and ask the right questions.
Know what your insurance covers
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Check whether your plan regards the crown as medically necessary (repairing decay, root canal‑aftercare) vs. cosmetic. Cosmetic may not be covered. Investopedia+1
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Find out your annual limit, deductible and whether the dentist is “in‑network.” Being out‑of‑network often means you’ll pay more. Delta Dental
Ask for a pre‑treatment estimate
Before the work begins, ask your dentist: “What will my out‑of‑pocket cost be, after insurance?” Also ask: “Is there a less expensive material option?”
Choose wisely: material vs. cost
If your crown doesn’t need to be in the front of your mouth, you might select a less costly material (metal vs. zirconia vs. porcelain) and still get good value. GoodRx
Annual timing matters
If your plan’s “year” resets soon, it may make sense to schedule early so you maximize that year’s benefit rather than waiting and losing eligibility.
Ask about payment plans
Some dental offices will let you spread out payments or offer a cash‑discount if you pay upfront, worth asking.
So yes, your insurance helps, but you still have power. By being informed and proactive, you can bring your how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth question down significantly.
Saving on a Crown Without Insurance
No insurance? Don’t panic. You still have options, and in many cases you can save even more by choosing smartly.
Get a membership or discount plan
Many offices offer in‑office membership plans (often called “dental savings plans”) where you pay a fixed annual fee and get discounted rates on many treatments, including crowns. These plans often have no wait‑periods, and transparent pricing. Wikipedia
Choose a trusted practice via The Patient Marketplace
Using a platform like The Patient Marketplace (thepatientmarketplace.com) you can find dental practices that advertise membership plans and transparent pricing, letting you compare who offers the best deal, and avoid hidden fees.
Ask for simplified materials or lower cost options
If durability is less critical (e.g., in a back molar), you might select a simpler material that lowers the crown cost, still protecting your tooth effectively.
Visit a dental school or clinic with sliding‑scale fees
Dental schools often offer dentistry at reduced cost under supervision. Timeline might be longer, but cost savings matter. GoodRx
Use tax‑advantaged accounts
Even without insurance, you may have access to HSAs or FSAs (if eligible) which let you pay pre‑tax for dental treatment, reducing your effective cost. Delta Dental
Negotiate direct payment
Ask your provider: “If I pay cash or upfront, would you discount my crown?” Often yes.
And so again your core question, how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth, has a more manageable answer: if you do your homework and use smart strategies, your cost might be significantly lower than the “average.”
Why In‑Office Membership Plans Are a Game‑Changer
If you’re tired of confusing insurance fine print and hidden costs, an in‑office membership plan (often offered via practices on The Patient Marketplace) may be the ultimate solution for saving money and gaining simplicity.
Clear upfront pricing
You pay a flat annual fee, and the office shows you discounted prices for big treatments like crowns. No surprise bills.
No network hopping
You stick with one trusted dentist or clinic, they become your go‑to, you build rapport, and you get consistent care.
Immediate savings, no wait‑period
Unlike some dental insurance which forces you to wait months before “major” procedures are covered, membership plans are often active right away.
Value for multiple treatments
If you anticipate needing a crown and other services (cleaning, filling, maybe more), the membership plan may pay for itself.
Relatable story: How it worked for Sarah
Sarah had a decayed molar and dreaded the quote: “$1,600 for a crown.” She didn’t have dental insurance.
Using The Patient Marketplace, she found a practice offering a membership plan for $299/year that gave 30 % off all restorative work. With that discount, her crown cost dropped to ~$1,120, and one routine filling cost only ~$70 instead of ~$110. She walked out feeling relieved, not stressed.
That’s the power of a plan that actually works with your budget and your needs.
So when you’re asking “how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth?”, don’t stop at the price. Ask: what plan am I using? What discounts are in place? If the answer is “membership plan,” you’re ahead.
How to Act Now: Your Steps to Save
Don’t wait until your tooth pain forces you into hasty decisions. Be proactive. Here’s your actionable checklist:
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Go to The Patient Marketplace (thepatientmarketplace.com) and search for dental practices near you offering membership plans.
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Request a treatment estimate: “I need a crown, what will my cost be under your membership plan vs. regular pricing?”
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Ask the dentist: “What materials are you suggesting and why? Can you show me a lower‑cost option?”
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If you have insurance: check your benefits, confirm your dentist is in‑network, get a pre‑treatment estimate.
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If you don’t have insurance: compare cash‑paid rate vs. membership plan discount.
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Use any available tax‑advantaged account (HSA/FSA) to apply toward the crown cost.
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Don’t postpone: the sooner you act, the sooner the crown is placed, and the less chance the tooth issue grows into something more expensive.
Remember: the question how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth becomes far less scary when you’re empowered with options, and a plan to save.
FAQs
What is the average cost of a dental crown in the U.S.?
Most commonly, a crown without insurance will cost between $800 and $2,500 depending on material, location, and dentist. GoodRx+1
Does dental insurance typically cover crowns?
Yes, if the crown is medically necessary (e.g., after a root canal), but coverage varies widely. Cosmetic crowns may not be covered. Delta Dental+1
What factors influence how much a crown costs?
Material choice (porcelain, zirconia, metal), geographic location, dentist’s skill or specialization, preparatory work required, lab fees, number of visits. dentalecostsmile+1
Can I save significantly if I don’t have insurance?
Yes—through membership plans, dental discount plans, choosing simpler materials, or visiting dental schools. You can reduce the cost meaningfully.
What’s the benefit of a dental membership plan vs. regular insurance?
Membership plans often offer immediate access, transparent pricing, predictable discounts, no large network restrictions or long wait times.
If I already have insurance, should I still consider a membership plan?
It’s worth comparing. Sometimes, a membership plan alongside your insurance might yield better out‑of‑pocket cost. Or at least provide a backup for services your insurance limits.
Conclusion
If you’re pondering how much does it cost to get a crown on a tooth, you’re facing real financial and dental anxiety, and that’s totally understandable. But the good news? You have choices.
Whether you’re covered by insurance or flying solo, you can actively reduce your cost and get quality care. The smartest path: find a dental practice that offers a transparent in‑office membership plan, compare materials, ask for estimates, and don’t let fear, or confusion, stop you.
Use The Patient Marketplace to locate a practice that aligns with your budget and goals. Schedule a consult, ask all the right questions, secure clear pricing, and walk into your appointment empowered, not uncertain.
Your tooth deserves the crown, and your wallet deserves peace of mind. Let’s help you make that happen today.
