A Shocking Truth About the Cost of Dental Crowns
Let’s face it, the cost of a dental crown can hit your wallet like a ton of bricks. Whether it’s due to a cracked molar or a deep cavity, hearing that you need a crown often comes with a second blow: the price tag. On average, dental crowns can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the material used and your location.
Worse? That’s if you have insurance. For those without, the sticker shock is even more painful.
But here’s the thing: You don’t have to pay full price. Not anymore.
Why Is the Cost of a Dental Crown So High?
Before diving into savings, it’s important to understand why dental crowns are expensive in the first place:
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Lab Fees: Custom-made crowns are crafted in dental labs, which adds to the cost.
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Materials: Porcelain, zirconia, or gold, different materials come with different price tags.
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Multiple Visits: You’re paying not just for the crown, but for exams, x-rays, fitting, and adjustments.
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Insurance Gaps: Even with insurance, you might still owe hundreds out-of-pocket.
So yes, while crowns are essential for restoring your smile and protecting your teeth, they’re definitely not cheap.
How to Save on the Cost of a Dental Crown (With or Without Insurance)
You have options, real, budget-friendly options. Whether you’re insured, uninsured, or somewhere in between, here’s how to make dental care affordable again.
Use a Dental Membership Plan Instead of Insurance
Here’s a little-known secret: Dental membership plans can slash your crown costs without the red tape of traditional insurance.
Unlike dental insurance, these plans are:
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Transparent — No hidden fees, no surprise bills.
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Simple — Pay a low monthly or yearly fee.
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Valuable — Often include free cleanings, exams, and deep discounts on procedures like crowns.
And guess what? These plans are offered directly by dental offices. No middleman. No claims.
Meet Sarah: How a $29 Membership Saved Her $900
Sarah, a 42-year-old teacher in Atlanta, was quoted $1,800 for a porcelain crown at a local dentist, without insurance. Frustrated and overwhelmed, she found a provider through The Patient Marketplace, offering a membership plan for just $29/month.
Her out-of-pocket cost after joining? $900.
Not only did she save 50%, but she also got two cleanings and x-rays included, all without dealing with insurance headaches.
How The Patient Marketplace Makes Dental Crowns Affordable
The real game-changer? The Patient Marketplace.
This online platform helps you:
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Find dentists offering membership plans
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Compare savings instantly
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Book directly; no phone tag
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Know costs upfront
Plus, every provider on the platform is vetted, reviewed, and transparent with pricing. That’s peace of mind and savings in one.
The Cost of a Dental Crown Without Insurance: Break Down the Bill
| Procedure | Typical Price | With Membership Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Exam & X-Ray | $100 – $300 | Included or $0 |
| Porcelain Crown | $1,000 – $2,000 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Tooth Prep & Fitting | $150 – $300 | Included or Discounted |
Without insurance, you’re likely staring at a $1,500+ bill. With a plan? That could drop to under $800.
The Cost of a Dental Crown With Insurance: Still Not Enough
If you do have dental insurance, great, but don’t get too comfortable just yet.
Most plans:
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Cap annual benefits at $1,000–$1,500
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Only cover 50% of major procedures
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Still leave you with big out-of-pocket costs
So even with coverage, your crown might still cost you $600 or more.
How Dental Membership Plans Beat Insurance
| Feature | Insurance | Membership Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $30–$50 | $10–$30 |
| Waiting Period | 6–12 months | None |
| Deductible | Yes | No |
| Coverage Percentage | Often 50% on crowns | Flat-rate discounts |
| Max Annual Benefit | $1,000–$1,500 | No max |
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Getting a Dental Crown
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Not comparing providers. Prices vary wildly.
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Ignoring membership options. They’re often cheaper than insurance.
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Assuming insurance covers everything. It rarely does.
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Waiting too long. Delaying treatment can increase your cost.
Dental Crown Cost: What Factors Affect the Price?
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Material Chosen (Porcelain, Zirconia, Metal)
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Tooth Location (Back teeth are harder to reach)
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Dentist’s Location (Big city = bigger cost)
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Additional Procedures Needed (Root canal, gum treatment)
FAQs
Is the cost of a dental crown worth it?
Absolutely. A crown protects your tooth, prevents extraction, and restores function, saving money long-term.
Can I get a dental crown without insurance?
Yes! Many dentists offer in-office membership plans or flexible payment options.
What’s the cheapest way to get a dental crown?
Use The Patient Marketplace to find dentists offering membership plans and discounts.
Are dental membership plans legit?
Yes. They’re offered directly by trusted dental offices and can save you 30-60% on care.
How long do crowns last?
Typically 10–15 years, depending on material and oral hygiene.
Is The Patient Marketplace free to use?
Yes. It’s 100% free to browse, compare, and book.
The Final Word
When dental costs seem overwhelming, it’s easy to delay care or settle for less. But that just leads to bigger bills and worse outcomes.
Instead, take control with affordable membership plans and use tools like The Patient Marketplace to find quality care that doesn’t empty your savings.
It’s simple. It’s transparent. It’s the future of dentistry.
Explore The Patient Marketplace now and find a dental crown provider who offers membership savings you can smile about.
