Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental & Teeth Cleanings?

Ever thought about why your pet’s breath may be stinky after a face licking session? If your dog or cat has a case of bad breath — otherwise known as halitosis — it could be a telltale sign of periodontal (gum) disease — or even an underlying health condition. But don’t fret — just like humans, dental check-ups and regular cleanings for our furry friends can help prevent dental issues such as plaque buildup and tooth decay and maintain overall health. 

Know the Signs of Pet Dental Disease

Cat and dog bad breath should never be ignored, but it’s also important to know it’s not the only indicator that your pet may have oral health issues. Symptoms of dental disease may include bleeding gums, drooling, brown or yellow crust on the surface of teeth, or changes in chewing habits.  

80% of dogs and 70% of cats show symptoms of dental or periodontal disease by the age of three.

Now, before you schedule your pet’s teeth cleaning, you’ll want to read this article to find out how much you can expect to pay and how pet insurance and preventative care coverage may be a gamechanger in managing your furry companions’ teeth expenses. 

How Much Does a Pet Teeth Cleaning Cost?

You may pay between $500 to $3,000 for a professional teeth cleaning, depending on where you live and the veterinarian you choose. Typically, this type of procedure includes X-rays, a dental exam, teeth scaling and polishing, and anesthesia. While it may sound costly, it’s necessary to maintain your pet’s oral hygiene. Neglecting your pet’s teeth could spell financial trouble, resulting in more intensive — and expensive — dental procedures, such as a root canal or dental crown placement. 

Does Pet Insurance Cover Teeth Cleaning?

A happy mouth means a happy pet — good oral hygiene and dental health are important to our pet’s everyday lives. Just think about all the things dogs and cats put in their mouths. This means they’re more vulnerable to bacteria exposure. The best way to prevent dental disease is having your pet’s teeth regularly cleaned and examined by a vet.  

This leads many pet parents to ask: Does pet insurance cover teeth cleanings? The short answer is no, but don’t despair. While routine dental cleanings aren’t covered by most pet insurance plans, dental accidents and illnesses are a different story. If your dog or cat experiences a dental emergency — like a fractured tooth or jaw fracture from chewing on something hard —or develops a dental illness such as gingivitis or gum disease, pet insurance can help offset those unexpected vet costs. 

Understanding Pet Insurance Coverage

Fortunately, Embrace Pet Insurance’s accident and illness policy offers full coverage on dental accidents and up to $1,000 per policy term on dental illnesses. This means that if your pet needs treatment for a pesky dental issue, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you have financial support to get them the care they need. 

How to Get Reimbursed for Pet Teeth Cleaning Costs

While standard pet insurance doesn’t typically cover teeth cleanings, many wellness plans allow you to get paid back for those expenses. These optional, non-insurance add-ons go beyond traditional coverage, offering benefits for teeth cleanings, annual dental exams, and other routine and preventative care.

Having a wellness plan isn’t just about dental care – it can also help cover a wide range of routine care expenses such as vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, grooming, supplements, and more, ensuring your pet stays happy and healthy year-round.

Better Together: Pet Insurance & Pet Wellness

Having dog health insurance or cat health insurance paired with a wellness plan offers the ultimate protection for your furry family members and your finances. From unexpected accidents and illnesses to routine care, know with confidence your pet’s health is prioritized without the added stress of overwhelming vet bills. 

Financial Security: Coverage for unexpected accidents, injuries, and illnesses through pet insurance. 

Preventative Care Support: Access funds immediately for routine care services, including dental cleanings, with Wellness Rewards. 

Peace of Mind: Knowing that both preventative and emergency vet expenses are covered allows you to focus on your pet’s well-being without financial stress. 

Why Dental Care Matters

Dental care is crucial to your pet’s health, and understanding how your pet insurance works can help you plan better. While standard pet insurance often covers dental accidents and illnesses, wellness programs can provide additional support for routine dental cleanings. Combining coverage for unexpected issues with routine care can help ensure your pet’s smile and overall health are well taken care of throughout the year.