Do You Need a Dental Crown? Here’s How to Get One for Less
If you’ve been told you need a dental cap (crown) to restore a damaged or decayed tooth, your first question is likely: How much does it cost to cap a tooth?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of crown, materials used, and whether or not you have insurance. Unfortunately, dental crowns can be expensive, often costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars per tooth.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to overpay! There are ways to save big on tooth capping, including in-office membership plans, dental discount programs, and affordable alternatives like The Patient Marketplace.
This guide will break down the cost of capping a tooth and show you how to cut costs while getting high-quality dental care.
How Much Does It Cost to Cap a Tooth?
The cost of a dental crown varies based on the material used and where you get the procedure. Here’s a general price breakdown:
| Type of Dental Crown | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain (Tooth-Colored) | $800 – $2,000 | $400 – $1,200 | 10-15 years |
| Metal (Gold or Alloy) | $1,000 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,500 | 15-30 years |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) | $850 – $1,800 | $400 – $1,200 | 10-15 years |
| Zirconia (Strong & Aesthetic) | $900 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,500 | 10-20 years |
| Same-Day CEREC Crown | $1,000 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,500 | 10-15 years |
With Insurance: Most dental insurance plans cover 50% to 80% of the cost of a dental crown.
Without Insurance: Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the material and complexity of the procedure.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Tooth Capping
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for a tooth cap (dental crown):
1. Type of Crown Material
- Porcelain and zirconia crowns are popular for front teeth because they blend naturally with your smile.
- Metal and gold crowns are stronger and last longer but are more noticeable.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine durability with a natural look but may show a metal line over time.
- Same-day CEREC crowns use advanced technology to create a custom crown in one visit, reducing time and office visits.
2. Location of the Tooth
- Front teeth crowns are often more expensive because they require a high level of aesthetic precision.
- Back molars may be cheaper but need stronger materials to withstand chewing pressure.
3. Dentist’s Location & Expertise
- Dentists in major cities charge higher prices due to increased overhead costs.
- Suburban or rural dentists often offer lower prices for the same procedure.
4. Additional Procedures Needed
- X-rays, tooth shaping, and temporary crowns may increase the total cost.
- If the tooth requires a root canal, the total cost can rise by $1,000 or more.
How to Save on Tooth Capping Without Insurance
If you don’t have insurance, don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to get a high-quality dental crown at an affordable price.
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan – The Best Way to Save
Many dentists offer in-office membership plans that provide discounted crowns, exams, and cleanings for a low annual fee.
✔️ Savings on Dental Crowns:
- Regular porcelain crown: $1,200 → $600
- Zirconia crown: $2,000 → $1,000
Find a dentist with a membership plan at The Patient Marketplace
2. Consider a Dental School for Low-Cost Crowns
Dental schools provide discounted tooth capping services, performed by students under expert supervision.
3. Look for Sliding Scale Clinics
Some community health centers offer reduced pricing on dental crowns based on your income.
4. Ask for a Payment Plan
Many dental offices allow installment payments, breaking up the total cost into monthly payments instead of requiring a lump sum upfront.
A Patient’s Story: How Jake Saved $800 on His Tooth Cap
Jake, a 42-year-old sales executive, cracked his front tooth and needed a porcelain crown. His dentist quoted him $1,500—far beyond his budget.
Instead of paying full price, Jake found The Patient Marketplace and joined a membership plan for $199/year.
With his membership:
✔️ His $1,500 crown cost only $700
✔️ He got a free consultation and X-rays
✔️ He saved over $800 instantly
Now, Jake’s smile is fully restored—without the financial stress!
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Getting a Dental Crown
Ignoring a damaged or decayed tooth can lead to serious complications, such as:
Tooth infections requiring root canals ($1,000 – $2,500)
Tooth loss requiring a dental implant ($3,000 – $5,000 per tooth)
Pain and difficulty eating
A simple $800-$2,500 crown today can prevent thousands in future dental costs.
How to Get the Best Price on a Tooth Cap
Follow these steps to find the most affordable dental crown:
1️⃣ Check if your insurance covers crowns (most plans do!).
2️⃣ Compare prices from multiple dental offices.
3️⃣ Find a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.
4️⃣ Ask about cash discounts or payment plans.
5️⃣ Consider dental schools or nonprofit clinics for affordable care.
Pro Tip: If you need multiple crowns, ask your dentist about bundle discounts or package deals to lower the total cost.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overpay for a Tooth Cap
If you need a dental crown, you don’t have to break the bank. Whether you have insurance or not, affordable options exist.
✔️ With Insurance? Expect to pay $400 – $1,500 per tooth.
✔️ Without Insurance? The price ranges from $800 – $2,500 per tooth, but membership plans can cut costs by 50% or more.
✔️ Want the best deal? Find an affordable dentist through The Patient Marketplace.
FAQs
How much does it cost to cap a tooth without insurance?
Expect to pay between $800 and $2,500 per tooth, depending on the material used.
What is the best type of dental crown?
Porcelain and zirconia crowns offer the best combination of durability and aesthetics.
Where can I find affordable tooth capping services?
Check out The Patient Marketplace to find dentists offering low-cost membership plans.
Need a dental crown? Find an affordable dentist today!
