A Guide to Affordable Dental Crowns 2024

For many, dental crowns aren’t just about restoring teeth; they’re about restoring confidence, comfort, and the ability to smile without hesitation. Did you know that the cost of a dental crown in the United States can soar up to $2,000 per tooth? Here’s the surprising part: the dental crowns cost in Turkey and Mexico can be as low as $300 to $600 for the same high-quality treatment. This striking price difference doesn’t mean a compromise on quality. Clinics in these countries are certified by organizations such as the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Bookimed is here to guide patients through the best choices tailored to their needs.

Table of Contents:

• Dental Crowns: Do You Need One?

• The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

• Material-Based Crown Types and Costs

• Same-Day Crowns at Affordable Prices

• All-Inclusive Dental Crown Packages

• Top Destinations for Dental Tourism 

• Understanding Insurance for Dental Crowns

• How to Finance Dental Crowns

• Why Are Dental Crowns Cheaper Abroad?

• FAQs

Dental Crowns: Do You Need One?

🟢 Dental crowns, also known as tooth crowns or dental caps, are tooth-shaped caps used to cover damaged teeth. They provide strength and enhance their appearance. They play a vital role in various dental procedures, especially for patients:

• With severe decay or damage that can't be fixed with a filling.

• With broken or cracked teeth needing protection.

• After a root canal is done to strengthen the tooth,

• With large fillings and little natural tooth left.

• Needing to improve the look of discolored or misshapen teeth.

• Who need to cap dental implants.

• With severe tooth sensitivity from enamel loss.

A dental crown helps restore the natural tooth structure, protecting it from further damage and improving the patient's smile.

Studies, including a comprehensive analysis of over 1,000 single crowns, show that crowns offer a high cumulative survival rate of 89.9% after 5 years and 80.9% after 10 years, with many lasting well beyond that timeframe. While factors like anterior placement, non-vital abutments, and bruxism can slightly impact their longevity, crowns remain reliable for protecting and strengthening teeth.

If you're thinking about getting a dental crown, it's important to get all the facts. Asking the right questions will help you understand the procedure, costs, and options. Here's what patients should ask their dentist before moving forward with a dental crown.

💚Additionally, a Bookimed medical coordinator can help answer these questions and guide you through the process, ensuring you’re fully informed and confident in your decision. 

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown is a straightforward but important process. It restores a damaged tooth's strength, function, and appearance. The procedure varies based on the crown type—zirconia, porcelain, or gold—and the patient’s needs, but it generally follows a set series of steps.

Step	Details	Purpose
First visit	- X-rays and tooth preparation. - Impression taken. - Temporary crown placed.	Prepares the tooth and protects it.
Temporary crown	- Protects the tooth until the next visit.	Prevents further damage.
Second visit	- Fit and bond the permanent crown. - Adjust for comfort.	Finalize the crown for function and appearance.
One-visit crowns	- Uses CAD/CAM for same-day crown placement.	Quick, single-visit solution.

Material-Based Crown Types and Costs

The inexpensive dental crowns price varies greatly depending on the material used. Each type—whether porcelain-fused-to-metal, zirconia, or metal—offers a different balance of durability, aesthetics, and price. By understanding these options, patients can find affordable crowns that fit their budget. Let’s explore the costs of these crown types across different countries, noting that dental crowns can be considerably cheaper in countries like Thailand and Mexico compared to the U.S. and other western countries.

• 🦷 Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown. PFM crowns have a metal base covered with porcelain, providing durability and a natural look.

👉 Best for patients needing a combination of durability and a natural appearance, especially when the crown is visible during speaking or smiling.

PFM Low Cost Crowns For Teeth Comparison

Country	Cost
Azerbaijan	$250 - $400
Brazil	$500 - $800
Bulgaria	$300 - $600
Costa Rica	$350 - $500
Dominican Republic	$350 - $600
Hungary	$400 - $700
Mexico	$300 - $600
Poland	$400 - $700
Thailand	$300 - $600
Turkey	$200 - $400
UK	$400 - $800
USA	$800 - $1,500

Patients opting for low cost dental crowns in countries like Turkey can save up to 75% compared to the US prices. In Turkey, PFM crowns can cost between $200-$400; in the US, they go up to $1,500. A patient could save up to $1,300 per tooth.

The long-term study highlights the exceptional durability and success of dental crowns, particularly metal-ceramic crowns, which had a mean survival time of over 47 years. Other restorations, such as gold crowns and ceramic veneers, demonstrated an impressive 100% survival rate over a 50-year period.

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• 🦷 Zirconia Crown. Made from zirconium dioxide, they combine the strength of metal with the look of porcelain.

👉 Best for patients wanting a durable, natural-looking, metal-free front or back teeth option.

Zirconia Inexpensive Crowns For Teeth Cost Comparison

Country	Cost
Azerbaijan	$300 - $500
Brazil	$600 - $1,000
Bulgaria	$400 - $700
Costa Rica	$450 - $700
Dominican Republic	$450 - $800
Hungary	$500 - $900
Mexico	$350 - $800
Poland	$500 - $900
Thailand	$500 - $800
Turkey	$300 - $600
UK	$500 - $1,000
USA	$1,000 - $2,000

Choosing zirconia crowns in countries like Turkey or Mexico can result in savings of up to 70%. This saves patients $1,400 per tooth, making them an ideal option for those looking for cheap crowns without compromising on quality.

• 🦷 Porcelain Crown. Made entirely of porcelain for a natural look. Metal-free, suitable for metal allergies.

👉 Best for patients who prefer an entirely metal-free cheap dental caps that look the most like natural teeth, often for front teeth where aesthetics are a priority.

Affordable Dental Caps (Porcelain) Cost Comparison

Country	Cost
Azerbaijan	$250 - $450
Brazil	$500 - $800
Bulgaria	$300 - $600
Costa Rica	$350 - $500
Dominican Republic	$350 - $600
Hungary	$400 - $700
Mexico	$300 - $600
Poland	$400 - $700
Thailand	$300 - $600
Turkey	$200 - $350
UK	$400 - $800
USA	$800 - $1,500

Patients looking for affordable dental crowns can save up to 70% on porcelain crowns by opting for treatment in countries like Mexico or Bulgaria. With prices ranging from $300 to $600 compared to the USA's $800-$1,500, patients can save up to $900 per tooth.

• 🦷 Metal Dental Crown. Made of metals like gold or platinum. Very durable and requires less tooth removal.

👉 Best for Back teeth where strength is more important than looks.

Cheap Dental Crown (Metal) Cost Comparison

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Country	Cost
Azerbaijan	$300 - $600
Brazil	$500 - $1,000
Bulgaria	$300 - $700
Costa Rica	$400 - $800
Dominican Republic	$300 - $600
Hungary	$400 - $800
Mexico	$300 - $600
Poland	$400 - $800
Thailand	$300 - $700
Turkey	$300 - $500
UK	$400 - $800
USA	$800 - $1,500

Metal dental crowns are more affordable in countries like Turkey and Azerbaijan, where costs range from $300 to $600. Patients choosing the cheapest crown for a tooth abroad can save around 60%, reducing the dental crown cost by as much as $1,200 per tooth.

This study highlights the reliability of both porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) and metal crowns, with a cumulative survival rate of 83.9% over five years. PFM crowns showed excellent initial durability, with 97.2% survival at 1 year and 91.9% at 2 years, making them ideal for short-term results.

🟢Gold alloy crowns, suitable for individuals with metal allergies, tend to be more expensive, with costs ranging higher than base metal alloys.

• 🦷 Metal-Ceramic Crown. Combines the durability of metal with the natural look of porcelain. It has a metal core with a porcelain outer layer.

Best for patients who need a crown that combines metal strength with the aesthetics of porcelain, suitable for back teeth where durability and appearance matter.

Metal-Ceramic Crown Cost Comparison

Country	Cost Range
Azerbaijan	$300 - $600
Brazil	$500 - $1,000
Bulgaria	$300 - $700
Costa Rica	$400 - $800
Dominican Republic	$300 - $600
Hungary	$400 - $800
Mexico	$300 - $600
Poland	$400 - $800
Thailand	$300 - $700
Turkey	$400 - $800
UK	$800 - $1,500
USA	$1,000 - $2,000

By choosing metal-ceramic crowns in countries like Mexico or Poland, patients can save up to 70%. In the USA, the cost can reach $2,000, whereas affordable dental crowns in Mexico are available for $300-$600.

Same-Day Crowns at Affordable Prices

Same-day crowns might be the answer if you're looking for a speedy dental solution. They provide a quick and convenient way to restore your smile without multiple appointments or temporary crowns. These crowns are designed, created, and placed in just 1 appointment using advanced technology. This is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or those traveling for dental treatment.

🟢 Benefits of same-day crowns:

• ⏱️Fast and easy. One visit, no temporary crowns, no follow-ups.

• 🛡️Durable materials. Often made from strong zirconia or ceramic.

• 🎯Perfect fit. Digital imaging ensures a precise match to the tooth.

Same Day Cheap Dental Crowns Cost Comparison

Country	Cost Range
Azerbaijan	$400 - $800
Brazil	$600 - $1,200
Bulgaria	$400 - $800
Costa Rica	$500 - $900
Dominican Republic	$400 - $800
Hungary	$500 - $900
Mexico	$400 - $800
Poland	$500 - $900
Thailand	$400 - $800
Turkey	$500 - $900
UK	$700 - $1,200
USA	$800 - $1,500

Choosing same-day crowns in countries like Mexico, Turkey, or Thailand offers huge savings. Prices start at $400, which is up to three times less than in the United States, where costs go up to $1,500. It's a quick and cost-effective option for those seeking affordable crowns.

All-Inclusive Dental Crown Packages

🎁 Affordable dental crown packages offer a convenient and cost-effective option for patients seeking quality dental care abroad. These packages often include the crown procedure, transportation, and accommodation, making the entire process seamless for international patients.

💚 With Bookimed's all-inclusive packages, patients frequently benefit from lower prices and exclusive discounts, which are often unavailable when booking directly with clinics.

Complete Dental Care

These packages cover every step of treatment, from the initial consultation to follow-up care, ensuring personalized attention. In addition to dental crowns, many packages also include services such as veneers, X-rays, and customized treatment plans to meet each patient's needs.

✔️ Follow-up appointments are typically part of the package to ensure a smooth recovery and long-term results, providing a worry-free experience.

Prices through Bookimed are often more affordable than booking directly with clinics, with special deals available in top destinations like Turkey and Mexico.

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Top Destinations for Dental Tourism 

Dental tourism is booming, with over 1.2 million Americans alone traveling abroad each year for dental treatments. Countries like Turkey attract more than 500,000 international patients annually, while Mexico welcomes over 1 million dental tourists from the US and Canada. These destinations offer high-quality care and dental crowns at 50-70% lower prices compared to the US and Europe, making them top choices for those seeking reliable treatments.

Turkey

Patients choose Turkey not only for its cheap crowns for teeth but also for the high standards of dental care. 

Pros:

1. 🤑 Cost savings. Dental crowns in Turkey can cost between $200-$600, up to 70% less than in the US.

2. 🏆 High-quality care. Many clinics are JCI-accredited, ensuring international standards of care.

3. 🏥 Modern facilities. Clinics in Turkey are equipped with advanced technology like CAD/CAM.

4. 🧳 Comprehensive packages. Many clinics offer packages including accommodation, airport transfers, and language assistance.

Cons:

1. 🗣️ Language barrier. Although many clinics offer language assistance, communication can still be challenging in some areas.

2. 💸 Insurance coverage. Many dental insurance plansmay not cover treatments done abroad, requiring upfront payment and later reimbursement.

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Mexico

Mexican clinics are known for offering affordable dental crowns without compromising quality. The country’s proximity to the United States makes it a convenient option for many Americans seeking low-cost dental treatments.

Pros:

1. 🤑 Affordable costs. Low cost dental crowns in Mexico range from $300 to $800, a fraction of the price compared to the US.

2. 🛣️ Proximity. For US patients, Mexico offers easy access, often within driving distance, reducing travel expenses.

3. 🏥 Quality care. Many Mexican dental clinics are accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA), ensuring high standards of care.

4. ⏱️ Shorter waiting times. Patients can often secure appointments quickly, avoiding the long waiting times common in some countries.

Cons:

1. 🩺 Aftercare. Similar to Turkey, follow-up care may be more challenging when treatment is done abroad.

2. 👥 Potential for overcrowding. Popular clinics can be crowded, which may affect the time and attention given to each patient.

These offers might interst you:

Understanding Insurance for Dental Crowns

Dental insurance can significantly reduce the cost of dental crowns, even when you travel abroad for treatment. While the idea of getting a crown in another country might seem complex, the potential savings can be substantial. Imagine paying a fraction of the cost for the same high-quality crown and then getting reimbursed by your insurance! However, navigating the insurance process, especially for medical tourism, can be tricky. 

Coverage for dental crowns varies by policy. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns. Coverage often ranges from 50% to 80%, depending on the policy. However, many plans have a yearly cap on benefits, so it’s important to understand these limits.

❗Insurance usually covers crowns if deemed medically necessary, such as for tooth decay or root canal treatment. Cosmetic reasons, like enhancing appearance, may not be covered.

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🌍 Medical Tourism 

Treatments abroad are usually considered "out-of-network." Patients may need to pay upfront and file a claim later for reimbursement. Check with the insurance provider about their policy on international treatments.

A zirconia crown in the United States can cost up to $2,000. The same crown in Turkey may cost $400. If the insurance covers 50% of the US cost, that’s $1,000. However, getting the crown abroad and filing for reimbursement could mean only paying around $200 after insurance if reimbursed at 50% of the treatment's cost abroad.

👉Reimbursement Process. Gather all necessary documents, including:

• Itemized invoices.

• Treatment details.

• X-rays and medical reports.

• Submit these to the insurance company. Some insurers may reimburse up to 70% of the crown cost if it falls within their coverage criteria.

Pre-Authorization. Some insurers require pre-authorization before they agree to cover the dental procedure abroad. Contacting the insurance company in advance can prevent unexpected expenses.

💚Bookimed assigns a personal coordinator to guide patients through every step of their medical journey, from selecting a clinic to understanding insurance requirements. 

How to Finance Dental Crowns

Upfront costs can still be tricky, even when choosing dental tourism. Luckily, there are flexible financing options to make it easier. Patients can get clinic payment plans or take out medical loans. These options allow patients to spread out the payments while still receiving top-quality care. By exploring these choices, patients can focus on their smile transformation without worrying about finances.

• 🏥Clinic payment plans. Many clinics abroad, especially in dental tourism hotspots like Turkey and Mexico, offer payment plans. These plans allow patients to spread the cost of their dental crowns over several months, sometimes without interest. This is particularly useful for patients traveling for high-cost procedures.

• 💸 Medical loans. Healthcare loans, such as CareCredit or LendingClub, can be used to finance dental treatments abroad. These loans often have low-interest rates, and patients can apply before traveling, ensuring they have the funds ready for their treatment.

• 💳 Credit cards. International patients can use credit cards to pay for dental treatments abroad, especially if the card offers low interest or rewards. This can be helpful for managing upfront costs, and many clinics accept major credit cards like Visa or Mastercard.

• 💼HSA/FSA Accounts. Patients with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can use these funds to cover dental crowns abroad. These accounts allow pre-tax savings to be used for medical treatments, reducing overall costs.

Why Are Dental Crowns Cheaper Abroad?

Despite the lower costs, high standards of care are maintained. Dentists use the latest materials like zirconia and advanced techniques such as 3D imaging. Here's why crown dental treatment is so much more affordable abroad.

1. 🏥 Lower operational costs

• Labor and сlinic сosts. Turkish dentists earn around $20,000-$30,000 annually, compared to over $160,000 in the US, reducing treatment costs.

• Real estate prices. Clinic spaces in Turkey and Mexico are 50-60% cheaper than in the US, making crown prices lower, ranging from $300-$600 compared to $1,000-$2,000 in the US.

2. 💱 Favorable Exchange Rates. With 1 USD equal to roughly 27 Turkish Lira, a crown costing 4,000 TRY is about $150, making treatments much cheaper for international patients.

1. 🏛️ Government support and incentives

• Subsidies. Turkish clinics receive government subsidies, reducing treatment costs by 10-20%.

• Tax Benefits. Clinics in medical tourism programs get tax breaks, reducing costs by an additional 5-10%.

4. 👥 High Volume of Patients. Leading clinics treat over 300 patients monthly, allowing bulk purchases of materials at up to 30% discount.

5. 🦷 Market competition. Over 1,500 dental clinics in Turkey cater to medical tourists, driving prices as low as $200-$400 for crowns. On Bookimed patients can choose from 215+ dental crown specialists.

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FAQs

How much is a crown without insurance❓

The cost of a dental crown without insurance varies depending on the material and location. In the US, crowns can range from $800 to $2,500. Countries like Mexico or Turkey offer crowns from $200 to $800 for more affordable options.

How long do dental crowns last❓

Tooth shaped caps usually last between 10 to 15 years with proper oral care. Zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and gold crowns are particularly durable, especially for molars and back teeth that endure more pressure. 

Can I get a cavity under a crown❓

Yes, developing a cavity under a crown is possible if the natural tooth beneath it decays. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing around the crown, helps to prevent decay. 

Do cheap dental crowns look fake and unnatural❓

No, modern affordable crowns for teeth are designed to look natural. High-quality materials like zirconia and porcelain closely mimic the color and texture of natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile.

What are the disadvantages of dental crowns❓

Some potential downsides include:

• 💸 Cost. Without insurance, crowns can be expensive, especially for materials like e.max or gold.

• 🪥 Sensitivity. Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after a crown is placed.

• 🔨 Damage. Crowns, especially porcelain, can chip or crack if not properly cared for.

• 🦷 Tooth reduction. Some tooth structures need to be removed to fit the crown, which could lead to issues over time.

• 💡 Replacement. Crowns may need replacement if they become loose or worn, adding to future costs.

Are dental crowns worth the cost❓

Yes, crowns are worth the investment. They protect damaged teeth, restore function, and can last many years. Even with the initial cost, they provide a long-term solution that helps maintain oral health and prevent further damage. 

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