Educating Patients & Connecting Them to Membership Plans.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Crowns? 3 Smart Ways to Save Big Without Going Broke

October 26, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Cory Youngberg

The Shocking Truth Behind Dental Crowns and Insurance Coverage

Dental crowns are often necessary, not optional. But here’s the catch: most people are stunned when they realize how much a crown can cost out-of-pocket, even with dental insurance. If you’ve ever asked, “Does dental insurance cover crowns?” you’re not alone. The short answer is: sometimes, partially, and with lots of strings attached.

Dental insurance often covers only a fraction of crown costs, usually 50% or less, and only if deemed “medically necessary.” Plus, many plans have low annual maximums, often around $1,000 to $1,500, making it easy to max out benefits with just one procedure.

But don’t worry. You’re not stuck between overpaying and poor oral health. There’s a better way.


The Real Problem: Why Dental Costs Are Out of Control

Let’s face it: dental care in the U.S. is confusing, expensive, and frustrating. You might be dealing with:

  • High deductibles or co-pays

  • Waiting periods for major procedures

  • Out-of-network fees

  • Complicated billing surprises

Even those with insurance often feel like they’re paying too much and getting too little. And for the uninsured? Crowns can cost anywhere from $900 to $2,500 per tooth.

That’s a lot to chew on.


The Smarter Solution: In-Office Membership Plans

So what’s the alternative? It’s simple: in-office dental membership plans.

These affordable, transparent, and easy-to-understand plans are offered directly by dental practices. They work like a gym membership, pay a monthly or annual fee, and get access to:

  • Free exams and cleanings

  • Discounts on crowns, fillings, root canals, and more

  • No deductibles, waiting periods, or annual maximums

It’s not insurance. It’s better. It’s care you can actually use.


A Real-World Example That Says It All

Meet Sarah, a freelance graphic designer in Austin, TX. She didn’t have insurance and needed two crowns after a painful dental emergency. The cost? $3,200 out-of-pocket.

But instead of taking out a loan, she discovered The Patient Marketplace, a platform that connects patients with dentists offering membership plans. She found a nearby provider offering a $30/month plan that included 50% off major procedures.

She ended up saving over $1,400. No insurance. No red tape. Just results.


Why More Patients Are Turning to The Patient Marketplace

ThePatientMarketplace.com is quickly becoming the go-to platform for savvy dental consumers. Why?

  • Transparent pricing

  • Zero insurance headaches

  • Access to quality local dentists

  • Huge savings on crowns and other procedures

You don’t need to wait for open enrollment or jump through hoops. You can join a plan today and start saving immediately.


The Hidden Truth About “Coverage”

Even if your insurance says it “covers crowns,” here’s what you need to look out for:

Insurance Fine Print What It Really Means
“50% coverage on crowns” After deductible, up to your max—usually $1,000–$1,500 annually
“12-month waiting period” You’ll have to wait a year to use it
“Pre-authorization required” You may not get approved at all
“Usual and customary fee” They only pay part of the cost

With a membership plan, you know what you’re paying, and saving, upfront.


Build Urgency: Dental Problems Don’t Wait

Here’s the scary part: delays in dental treatment can lead to infections, tooth loss, and more expensive procedures down the road. Waiting around for better insurance? That can cost you thousands later.

Why gamble with your health or wallet?


Take Action Now: Your Smile (and Budget) Will Thank You

Ready to stop overpaying for dental care?

Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com
Find a dental practice near you
Join a money-saving membership plan, today

Your future self (and your bank account) will be glad you did.


FAQs

Does dental insurance cover crowns?
Yes, but typically only 50%, and often with waiting periods and low annual limits. Many patients end up paying more out-of-pocket than expected.

Are in-office membership plans better than dental insurance?
For many people—yes. They offer immediate savings, no waiting periods, and transparent pricing without annual limits.

How much does a dental crown cost without insurance?
Anywhere from $900 to $2,500 depending on the material, dentist, and location.

Can I combine a membership plan with insurance?
In many cases, yes. It can help cover what insurance doesn’t and reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Where can I find dentists offering membership plans?
Check out The Patient Marketplace to find trusted providers offering affordable care near you.

Is The Patient Marketplace free to use?
Yes! It’s completely free for patients to explore and connect with dental practices offering savings plans.


Conclusion: Don’t Wait to Smile Again

Dental work, especially crowns, shouldn’t bankrupt you, or be a mystery. While dental insurance may offer partial help, it often falls short when you need it most. That’s why more patients are turning to in-office membership plans to save on dental crowns and other major procedures.

The Patient Marketplace empowers you to get the care you deserve, affordably and transparently. You’ll no longer wonder “Does dental insurance cover crowns?”, because you’ll already be saving without it.

Save on Dental, Optometry & Wellness

Dental & vision insurance are not the best options if you want to truly save on dental work or vision care. Search our listings of vetted prctices that can help you save money!

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.