The cost of dental work can feel like a punch to the gut, especially when you’re handed a treatment estimate for hundreds or even thousands of dollars for something as “simple” as a crown. Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or just feeling squeezed by rising healthcare prices, the price of a crown might have you wondering if you really need it at all.
But here’s the good news: there’s a smarter way to pay for dental care, one that more people are using every day to skip the insurance maze and still save big. Ready to stop stressing and start saving?
Understanding the Real Price of a Crown
The price of a crown can vary wildly, from $500 to over $2,500 per tooth, depending on your location, the type of crown (porcelain, gold, zirconia), and your dentist’s pricing structure. And if you don’t have insurance? You’re likely footing the whole bill yourself.
Even with insurance, patients often discover hidden fees, annual limits, or confusing clauses that leave them paying hundreds out of pocket.
That’s the problem: dental insurance is outdated, confusing, and often not as helpful as it claims to be.
Why Is Dental Care So Expensive in the First Place?
There’s no sugar-coating it, dentistry in the U.S. is pricey. Here’s why:
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Private dental practices set their own rates
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Insurance rarely covers more than $1,000–$1,500/year
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Crowns require lab work and multiple visits
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High overhead costs at clinics
In short, you’re not just paying for the crown, you’re paying for the materials, labor, time, and the dentist’s overhead.
Affordable Alternatives: How to Save on the Price of a Crown
Now let’s flip the script. Here are some real, proven ways to bring that dental crown cost back down to earth:
Use a Dental Membership Plan Instead of Insurance
Unlike traditional dental insurance, in-office membership plans give you upfront, predictable pricing with no confusing fine print.
How it works:
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Pay a low monthly or yearly fee (typically $20–$40/month)
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Get discounted rates on crowns, cleanings, x-rays, and more
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No annual limits, deductibles, or waiting periods
The Result? Huge savings. In many cases, members save 20%–60% on the price of a crown, with no surprises.
Real Patient Story: How Sarah Saved $800 on Her Crown
Sarah, a single mom from Denver, needed a crown after a bad cavity. Her dental insurance wouldn’t cover the full amount, and she was quoted $1,300 out-of-pocket. That’s when she discovered a local dentist through The Patient Marketplace who offered a membership plan.
She signed up for just $30/month. As a member, her crown cost only $500, and included her checkups and cleanings too. That’s an $800 saving, just by skipping traditional insurance and joining a practice membership.
“I thought I couldn’t afford it. But this plan made it doable, and fast. No approvals, no bills later. Just done.” – Sarah J.
What Is The Patient Marketplace; and Why It Works
The Patient Marketplace is your direct link to dentists who offer membership plans that actually make sense.
With a simple search, you can:
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Find affordable dentists near you
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Compare membership plans side-by-side
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Book appointments online instantly
It’s like Airbnb for affordable dental care. Transparent, upfront, and patient-first.
How to Compare Crown Prices Like a Pro
Here’s what to look for:
| Factor | What to Ask |
|---|---|
| Type of Crown | Porcelain, gold, zirconia? |
| Lab Fees | Are they included in the quote? |
| Follow-Up Visits | Are they covered or extra? |
| Membership Discounts | Does the office offer a plan? |
| Reviews | What are others saying online? |
Being informed is the first step toward real savings.
Membership Plan vs. Insurance: Which Saves More on the Price of a Crown?
Dental Insurance
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High premiums ($30–$80/month)
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Long waiting periods
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Annual limits
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Complicated approvals
Membership Plan
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Low flat fee
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Instant access to care
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Transparent pricing
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Big discounts on procedures
Winner? Membership plans, hands down, for those who want clarity and savings.
No Insurance? Here’s How to Still Save on a Dental Crown
If you’re uninsured, don’t panic. Try these steps:
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Join a local dental membership plan
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Use The Patient Marketplace to find discounts
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Ask for a cash-pay discount
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Look into dental schools or nonprofit clinics
Being uninsured doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It just means you need to be smart, and proactive.
Insurance Can Still Work; If You Do This
If you do have dental insurance, here’s how to make it work harder:
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Max out your yearly benefit early
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Use in-network providers
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Combine with a membership plan (some allow it!)
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Double-check for exclusions or waiting periods
You might not save as much as a membership plan alone, but it’s better than nothing, if you play your cards right.
Urgency Alert: Why Waiting Costs You More
Delaying treatment leads to:
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Bigger cavities
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Tooth infections
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Root canals (which cost even more)
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Permanent tooth loss
Fixing a tooth early with a crown might be expensive, but waiting? That’s when it gets really pricey.
Why Dentists Love Membership Plans Too
It’s not just you who benefits.
Dentists also win with:
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Less paperwork
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Faster payments
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Stronger patient loyalty
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Happier, healthier patients
That’s why so many forward-thinking practices are ditching insurance and offering in-house dental membership plans instead.
Testimonials from Happy Patients
“I saved $700 on my root canal and crown. Best decision ever.” – John K., Austin
“No more arguing with insurance. I know exactly what I’m paying.” – Rosa M., Phoenix
“I found my dentist on The Patient Marketplace and love my membership.” – Leo R., Miami
Don’t Overpay for Your Crown
Still stressing over the price of a crown? You don’t have to.
Explore The Patient Marketplace today and:
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Find local dentists who offer transparent pricing
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Get membership plans that actually save you money
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Book fast, no insurance required
Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com to take control of your dental costs.
FAQs
How much does a dental crown cost without insurance?
Anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the material, location, and dentist.
Can I get a crown without insurance?
Yes! Many dentists offer membership plans or cash discounts for uninsured patients.
Is a dental membership plan worth it?
Absolutely. It can save you hundreds on crowns, cleanings, and other treatments without the hassle of insurance.
Do all dentists accept membership plans?
No. That’s why using The Patient Marketplace helps you find the right practice that offers them.
What’s the cheapest type of crown?
Metal crowns (like gold alloy) are often cheaper, but less aesthetic. Resin crowns are also affordable but less durable.
Can I combine dental insurance with a membership plan?
Some practices allow it. It depends on the provider. Always ask.
Say Goodbye to Overpriced Crowns
The price of a crown doesn’t have to break your budget, or your spirit. Whether you have insurance or not, there are real, practical ways to save, especially with a dental membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.
Don’t delay care. Don’t fear the bill. Be informed, be smart, and take action today.


