Pet Insurance and Dental Coverage: What You Need to Know
Pet insurance companies often cover dental-related injuries, but coverage for other dental health issues varies widely between policies. The extent of dental coverage can significantly impact the cost of pet insurance. Policies with more comprehensive coverage typically cost more than basic plans.
Key Points About Pet Insurance Dental Coverage
- Most pet insurance policies cover dental accidents and injuries.
- Coverage for dental illnesses varies by policy.
- Optional pet wellness plans may include coverage for teeth cleaning.
When Dental Problems Are Covered
Pet insurance generally covers dental accidents such as broken teeth. However, coverage for dental illnesses like gum disease is not standard across all policies. Some insurers, such as Figo, Pets Best, and Spot, cover dental illnesses, while others like Healthy Paws do not typically include this coverage.
Specific Dental Conditions and Procedures
Depending on the policy, pet insurance may cover:
- Crowns
- Damaged teeth
- Gingivitis
- Gum disease
- Root canals
- Stomatitis
- Teeth removal
However, most pet insurance policies do not cover:
- Cosmetic, endodontic, or orthodontic services
- Pre-existing conditions
- Routine dental care unless part of a wellness plan
Dental Coverage by Pet Insurance Company
Different pet insurance companies offer varying levels of dental coverage. For example:
- ASPCA: Covers dental illnesses in their base policy.
- Lemonade: Offers dental illness coverage as an additional option.
- Embrace: Covers dental accidents up to policy limits and dental illnesses up to $1,000 per year.
Cost of Pet Dental Coverage
The average monthly cost for pet insurance that includes dental coverage ranges from $48 to $125 for dogs, depending on factors like age and coverage limits. For cats, the cost is generally lower.
Waiting Periods for Pet Dental Insurance
Waiting periods before coverage kicks in vary between companies. For dental accidents, waiting periods range from 1 to 15 days, while for dental illnesses, they typically range from 14 to 30 days.
Cost of Pet Dental Treatments
The cost of dental treatments can be significant:
- Treating a fractured tooth averages $950.
- Treating gingivitis averages $770.
- Teeth cleaning for dogs costs between $170 and $350.
- Teeth cleaning for cats can cost over $2,000 in severe cases.
Understanding your pet insurance policy’s dental coverage is crucial for managing your pet’s dental health costs effectively.
