Finding the right pet insurance that includes dental coverage is crucial, considering how costly dental illness can be to treat. However, not all pet insurance plans are the same when it comes to dental coverage. In this article, we will break down the conditions and services that pet insurance plans may cover, the ones they may not, and the limitations you need to know about. Let’s dive in!
Why Dental Illness Coverage Matters
Dental disease, also known as periodontal or gum disease, is incredibly common in dogs and cats. In fact, an estimated 70% of cats and 80% of dogs develop dental disease by the age of three. Unfortunately, dental disease often goes undetected by pet owners. If left untreated, dental disease can cause chronic pain, tooth loss, infections, eroded gums, and even dangerous infections that spread to major organs.
Treating dental disease can be both costly and time-consuming, especially if it’s diagnosed in the later stages. Between 2017 and 2020, the average claim cost for dogs with periodontal disease was $1,942. Dental illness coverage is essential for your pet’s overall health and well-being, considering the high price tag associated with treatment.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Illnesses?
Not all pet insurance plans include dental illness coverage, so it’s important to carefully review the policies of the plans you are considering. Some plans exclude dental illness coverage altogether, while others may have preventive care requirements that must be met before coverage kicks in. Make sure to fully understand what is included in a plan’s dental coverage.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Cleanings?
Most pet insurance plans do not cover general oral health and hygiene upkeep, including dental cleanings. Dental cleanings are considered preventive care and are not typically covered by accident and illness insurance plans. However, in some cases, if a dental cleaning is prescribed as a treatment for a covered dental illness, it may be covered under your pet insurance plan.
Some pet insurance providers offer separate wellness plans or packages that can help cover the cost of preventive care, including dental services. You may be able to purchase this separately or as an add-on to your insurance plan.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extractions are often necessary for pets with periodontal disease or dental injuries. Most pet insurance plans that offer dental illness coverage will cover tooth extractions for accidents or illnesses. Without insurance, vet bills for tooth extraction can range from $500 to $900 per tooth, making coverage critical for pet owners.
Other Dental Conditions and Services Covered by Pet Insurance
In addition to tooth extractions, some pet insurance plans cover a range of dental treatments for various conditions, including gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease, tooth abscesses, oral growths and tumors, fractured jaw or tooth, and more. These plans may also cover services and treatments such as x-rays, scans, treatments, and prescription medicine for covered dental conditions.
Dental Services Not Covered by Pet Insurance
There are certain elective or cosmetic dental procedures and services that pet insurance plans typically do not cover. These may include caps, crowns, crown amputations, fillings, implants, scaling and/or planing, and root canals. Most preventive dental services and products, such as pet toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental chews, and dental supplements, are also not eligible for claim reimbursement.
The Difference Between Preventive Dental Care and Treatment for Dental Illnesses
It’s important to distinguish between preventive dental care and treatment for dental illnesses. Preventive dental care refers to services and products that help prevent dental illnesses, such as regular dental cleanings and tooth-friendly snacks and toys. On the other hand, treatment for dental illnesses involves diagnostics and treatments for existing dental issues.
Requirements, Conditions, and Limits of Dental Illness Coverage
There are a few requirements and conditions to be aware of when it comes to dental illness coverage. Most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing dental conditions or dental illnesses that occur or show symptoms during a waiting period. Some plans may require you to bring your pet in for an annual dental exam and cleaning before covering dental treatments. Additionally, there may be limits on the amount of reimbursement per year or per condition.
FAQs
Does Pet Dental Insurance Exist by Itself?
Pet dental insurance is typically not offered as a separate form of insurance. Most commonly, dental illness coverage is included as part of a pet accident and illness insurance plan. It’s crucial to ensure that dental illness coverage is included in the insurance plan you choose.
Which Pet Insurance Plan is Best for Dental Illness Coverage?
The best pet insurance plan for dental illness coverage depends on your individual needs, budget, and coverage requirements. Different providers offer varying levels of dental coverage. Take the time to compare different pet insurance providers and find the plan that suits you and your pet best.
How Can I Protect My Pet’s Dental Health?
Caring for your pet’s dental health is crucial in preventing dental issues. Establish a regular at-home teeth cleaning schedule, schedule professional dental checkups and cleanings, ensure a balanced and healthy diet, and provide dental-friendly toys and treats.
Conclusion
Dental problems can be a significant burden for both you and your pet. Dental illness coverage offered by pet insurance plans can save you thousands of dollars over your pet’s lifetime. However, it’s important to thoroughly research and understand the specific dental coverage offered by each insurance plan. Remember to consider the benefits, exclusions, requirements, and limits before making a decision. Opting for pet insurance with dental coverage will help ensure that your best friend receives the best dental care possible.
