If the dentist is fairly certain the tooth can be saved I wouldn't hesitate to spend the money.   Good teeth are important.   I had a tooth that cracked a few years ago, cost $1000 to have it crowned and I consider it money well spent.   If the tooth would have had to be pulled I would have gone with an implant.   Having had enough cows over the years with missing teeth, I sure don't want to be like them.

If the dentist can save that tooth, $1700 isn't much money really.