Educating Patients & Connecting Them to Membership Plans.

Tooth Cap Cost: The Smartest Way to Save on Crowns Without Insurance

April 02, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

Broke a tooth? Got a deep cavity? Or maybe your dentist just told you that you need a crown. The first question that pops into your mind: how much is this going to cost me?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by tooth cap cost, you’re not alone. Dental crowns (or “caps”) are one of the most common restorations—but they’re also among the most expensive. And if you don’t have insurance? That price tag can feel downright crushing.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to overpay. With smart strategies like in-office membership plans and The Patient Marketplace, saving hundreds on a crown is not only possible—it’s easy.


What Exactly Is a Tooth Cap (Dental Crown)?

A tooth cap, or crown, is a custom-made cover that fits over a damaged, decayed, or root-canaled tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. Crowns are also used to top off dental implants.

Common reasons for getting a crown include:

  • Large cavities or broken fillings

  • Cracked or worn-down teeth

  • After a root canal

  • For cosmetic improvement

  • To cover implants or bridges


Tooth Cap Cost: What You’ll Pay Without Insurance

Without insurance, the average tooth cap cost ranges from $800 to $2,500+—depending on the material and procedure involved.

Type of Crown Cost Without Insurance
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) $800 – $1,400
All-Porcelain / Ceramic $1,000 – $1,800
Gold or Metal Alloy $1,200 – $2,500
Zirconia $1,000 – $2,000
Same-Day CEREC Crown $1,000 – $1,600

And that’s just the crown. If you need additional procedures (like X-rays, exams, core buildup, or root canals), the bill can easily skyrocket.


Even with Insurance, You’ll Still Pay a Lot

While many insurance plans partially cover crowns, most cap the annual benefit between $1,000 and $1,500—which doesn’t stretch far when a single crown may eat that up.

Plus, you’ll still deal with:

  • Deductibles

  • Waiting periods

  • Coverage limitations (only certain materials covered)

So what can you do when insurance isn’t enough—or you don’t have it at all?


The Affordable Alternative: Dental Membership Plans

Forget the insurance shuffle. In-house dental membership plans are the smarter way to save on crowns—especially if you’re uninsured or underinsured.

These plans offer:

  • Low monthly or annual fees

  • Free exams, X-rays, and cleanings

  • 20–60% OFF procedures—including crowns

  • No deductibles, waiting periods, or approvals

It’s like a dental discount club. Simple, transparent, and designed to save you money.


Real Story: How Maya Saved $900 on Her Tooth Cap

Maya, a 29-year-old teacher, cracked a molar and was told she needed a crown. The quote? $1,650. With no dental insurance and student loans looming, she almost postponed care.

Then she found a dentist through The Patient Marketplace offering a $28/month membership plan. That plan dropped her crown cost to $750—less than half the original quote.

Even better? Her exam and X-ray were included. No surprises. No stress. Just real savings.


Why The Patient Marketplace Works

The Patient Marketplace connects you to local dentists who offer:

  • Transparent pricing

  • In-office membership plans

  • Special discounts on common treatments (including crowns)

  • Upfront, real-world savings—no confusing fine print

It’s built for patients who want affordable care without dealing with insurance red tape.


Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get a Tooth Cap

Delaying a crown doesn’t save you money—it costs you more. Here’s why:

  • A damaged tooth can crack further

  • Cavities may worsen, requiring root canals or extractions

  • Infection and pain may develop

  • Emergency care is always more expensive

Fixing it early with a discounted crown could save thousands in future treatments.


How to Save on Tooth Cap Cost Without Insurance

Here’s your action plan:

  1. Visit The Patient Marketplace to search for local dentists

  2. Compare membership plans and prices for crowns

  3. Enroll online or in-office for instant savings

  4. Get your crown treatment done—without breaking the bank

You could easily save $500–$1,000 or more.


What Factors Affect the Cost of a Tooth Cap?

Several things can influence your final price:

  • Material used (ceramic, metal, zirconia)

  • Tooth location (molars often cost more)

  • Need for root canal or buildup

  • Dental lab or same-day technology

  • Provider location and experience

That’s why using a tool like The Patient Marketplace helps you compare providers and choose wisely.


FAQs About Tooth Cap Cost

How much is a tooth cap without insurance?
It typically ranges from $800 to $2,500 depending on the crown material and dental office.

Is a dental membership plan better than insurance?
For many patients, yes. Plans offer instant discounts, no waiting periods, and fewer restrictions.

Can I get a crown without insurance?
Yes. Many dentists offer membership plans that significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost.

What’s the cheapest type of dental crown?
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are often the most affordable but may not look as natural.

Is a tooth cap necessary?
If your tooth is broken, cracked, or weakened, a crown is necessary to protect and restore it.

Where can I find affordable crowns near me?
Check The Patient Marketplace to compare dental providers and pricing in your area.


Conclusion: You Can Afford the Crown You Need

Tooth cap cost doesn’t have to leave you guessing—or in debt. Whether you’re uninsured or frustrated with your current plan, in-office membership programs offer a reliable path to affordable, high-quality care.

Visit The Patient Marketplace today and find a local dentist who can restore your smile—without destroying your budget.


Inbound Link Suggestions

  • Blog: “Types of Dental Crowns: Pros and Cons”

  • Page: “Join Our Affordable Dental Plan”

Outbound Link Suggestions

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.