Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental?
Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance
Dental care isn’t just about your pet having fresh breath, it’s a big part of their overall health. In fact, dental disease is one of the most common health problems seen in cats and dogs. But many pet parents don’t realize how expensive dental procedures can be, or whether pet insurance covers these costs.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what dental care is typically covered by pet insurance, what’s excluded, and how to choose the best policy for your pet’s needs.
Common Dental Care Costs
Dental care is more than just a cosmetic concern for pets. Poor oral health can lead to infections that affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why maintaining your pet’s dental health isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary.
Common dental procedures include:
- Routine dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar
- Tooth extractions for broken or decayed teeth
- Treatment for periodontal disease, which affects the gums and bone around the teeth
- Surgical repair of fractured teeth or jaw injuries
Without insurance, dental procedures can quickly add up. A simple cleaning might cost $300 to $700, while extractions or treatment for periodontal disease can run $1,000 or more. Emergency dental surgery? That can exceed $2,000.
Is Dental Coverage Included in Pet Insurance?
Most accident and illness pet insurance plans include some form of dental coverage, but only for specific conditions. Here’s how it usually breaks down:
Commonly covered under accident and illness plans:
- Broken teeth due to trauma (e.g., from a fall or chomping on a bone)
- Dental abscesses
- Periodontal disease (if it developed during coverage)
- Oral tumors or cysts
Not typically covered:
- Preventative dental cleanings
- Pre-existing issues
- Cosmetic procedures like orthodontics
What’s considered an “accident” versus an “illness” can impact coverage. For example, if your dog chips a tooth while playing fetch, it’s considered an accident and might be covered. But if your cat develops gum disease from years of tartar buildup, that’s considered an illness and may only be covered if your plan includes more comprehensive illness coverage.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Teeth Cleaning?
In most cases, standard accident and illness policies don’t cover routine dental cleanings. These are considered preventive care, much like vaccines or flea/tick prevention.
However, many insurance providers offer wellness add-ons or preventive care riders that include coverage for dental cleanings. These may help with the cost of an annual cleaning and sometimes cover dental exams or fluoride treatments.
Common Exclusions and Limitations in Dental Coverage
While pet dental insurance can be helpful, it does come with some limitations. Here’s what’s commonly excluded:
- Pre-existing conditions: If your pet had dental disease or a fractured tooth before your policy started, treatment likely won’t be covered.
- Elective or cosmetic procedures: This includes things like braces or teeth whitening.
- Lack of preventive care: Some insurers require proof of regular dental cleanings for illness coverage to apply.
- Breed-specific issues: Certain breeds are prone to dental problems (like small dog breeds with overcrowded teeth), and not all plans cover hereditary or breed-specific conditions.
Comparing the Best Pet Insurance for Dental Care
If having dental coverage for your pet is a priority for you, it’s worth comparing plans side by side. Here’s what to look for:
- Does the plan include dental illness coverage or just accidents?
- Are annual cleanings covered under a wellness add-on?
- What’s the maximum payout for dental procedures?
- Are specific breeds or conditions excluded?
Some providers known to offer dental benefits include:
- Embrace: Offers dental illness coverage and wellness rewards for cleanings.
- ASPCA Pet Health Insurance: Covers dental diseases and injuries under standard plans.
- Figo: Includes dental illness and accident-related dental coverage.
It’s also helpful to compare the monthly premium against the average cost of a dental procedure. If your pet is at higher risk for dental issues, the plan may quickly pay for itself.
Pet Dental Health and Insurance: Why Prevention Matters
Daily brushing might sound ambitious, but even brushing your pet’s teeth a few times a week can make a big difference. Dental chews, water additives, and dental toys also help keep plaque and tartar in check.
Regular vet dental exams are crucial. Not only do they make sure your pet stays healthy, but they also help maintain eligibility for dental coverage with some insurers.
Taking care of your pet’s teeth now can reduce the need for expensive procedures later and keep your insurance claims to a minimum.
Is Dental Coverage Worth It in Pet Insurance?
If you have an older pet, a breed prone to dental disease (like Yorkies or Greyhounds), or just want peace of mind, dental coverage may be worth it. Even one major dental procedure can cost more than a year’s worth of premiums.
For example, if your cat needs a tooth extraction that costs $1,200, and your policy reimburses 80%, you’d only pay $240 out of pocket (plus your deductible).
At the end of the day, investing in pet dental insurance is about protecting both your pet’s health and your budget. Take the time to review your current plan (or explore new ones) to make sure you’re covered when it counts.