If you’ve ever been hit with an unexpected dental bill, you know the frustration. Dental crowns can be costly, often leaving patients wondering if there’s a way to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Whether you have insurance, don’t have coverage, or are considering a membership plan, there are ways to significantly reduce the expense.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of a dental crown, the factors affecting its price, and the best strategies to save money on your dental care. Plus, we’ll introduce a game-changing solution: The Patient Marketplace – a platform designed to help patients find affordable care through dental membership plans.
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost?
The cost of a dental crown varies based on several factors, including material, location, and the dentist’s pricing. Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of a dental crown in the U.S.:
- Porcelain Crown: $800 – $3,000 per tooth
- Metal Crown (Gold, Palladium, etc.): $900 – $2,500
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown: $700 – $1,500
- Zirconia or E-Max Crown: $1,000 – $2,500
While insurance can help, many people are still left with out-of-pocket expenses ranging from $300 – $1,000 per crown. But don’t worry, we have cost-saving strategies that can help!
The Hidden Costs of Dental Crowns
Even if you have insurance, a crown isn’t always fully covered. Here’s why:
✅ Annual Maximums – Most dental insurance plans cap coverage at $1,000 – $2,000 per year. If you’ve hit your limit, you’ll pay out of pocket.
✅ Waiting Periods – Some plans require a 6-12 month waiting period before covering major procedures.
✅ Co-Pays & Deductibles – You might still owe 50% or more of the total crown cost.
Want to cut these costs? Let’s talk savings.
How to Save Money on Dental Crowns (With & Without Insurance)
1. Find a Dentist That Offers In-House Membership Plans
Instead of relying on traditional insurance, many dental offices now offer membership plans that eliminate middlemen and reduce costs by up to 60%.
Example: Instead of paying $1,500 for a crown, members of a dental savings plan might only pay $700 – $900 – with NO waiting periods or annual limits.
✅ No insurance required
✅ Affordable monthly/yearly plans
✅ Significant savings on crowns, cleanings, and other procedures
2. Use The Patient Marketplace to Find a Budget-Friendly Dentist
Finding a dentist with fair pricing can feel like a gamble. But The Patient Marketplace ( thepatientmarketplace.com) connects patients directly with affordable dental providers who offer discounted treatment plans.
Benefits of The Patient Marketplace:
✔️ Compare prices from local dentists
✔️ Find in-office membership plans that lower costs
✔️ Access special offers & promotions
Real Savings Example: A patient saved $600 on a crown by switching to a provider found through The Patient Marketplace!
3. Consider Dental Schools for Affordable Crowns
Many dental schools offer low-cost treatments performed by supervised students. While it may take a bit longer, the cost savings can be as much as 50% compared to private clinics.
How to Find One: Search for accredited dental schools near you through the American Dental Association (ADA) or your state’s dental board.
4. Ask About Discounts for Paying in Cash
Many dental offices offer cash discounts (5-15%) for patients who pay upfront instead of going through insurance. It’s worth asking your dentist if they offer price breaks for cash payments.
5. Get a Second Opinion
Dentists’ pricing can vary dramatically, even within the same city. If your estimate seems high, get a second opinion – especially if you’re paying out-of-pocket. You might find a provider who can do the same work for hundreds less.
The Fastest Way to Cut Dental Costs? Find a Membership Plan Today
If you’re tired of overpriced dental care, membership plans and The Patient Marketplace can help you save.
No waiting periods
No annual limits
Exclusive discounts on major treatments like crowns
Take Control of Your Dental Costs – Visit The Patient Marketplace Today!
Final Thoughts: Saving Money on Dental Crowns is Possible
The cost of a dental crown doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you have insurance or not, there are smart ways to save – from finding a membership plan to using The Patient Marketplace.
Take Action Now: Find a dentist who offers membership plans, explore discounted providers, and never overpay for a dental crown again.
Ready to save? Start here The Patient Marketplace
