It might be worth getting a second opinion. Seeing an orthodontist or prosthodontist might not be a bad option. Even the few hundred in consultation fees will be worth getting another opinion before forking out 44K.

An Ortho might be best, because they generally will look at the alignment of your jaw rather than want to cut your teeth up with crowns. Your grinding could be related to a bad bite (malocclusion) and having braces could be a much cheaper and more effective way. The only problem is the short roots, but crowning your teeth wont help them either.

Another possibility is to have your jaw opened with composite buildups that act like a fixed orthotic/ splint. A lecturer of mine in Queensland did a big case study where a man ground away all his teeth to nubs. He built up the front teeth (not the back) with resin. It acted much like the orthotic, but looks like teeth. The fact that you only hit on the front teeth can prevent clenching and grinding and generally reduce the wear. Then the back teeth can either be left to erupt into the bite over time, or be built up to be larger. Ive had some good results with this, but its not for everyone and its not a cure all. The short roots on your front teeth may also make this treatment a poor option as well.

If your dentist is an LVI dentist, definitely get a second opinion. Their views are a bit controversial, and it cant hurt to get more info.

Good luck and I hope you get a good outcome soon.