Does pet insurance cover dental?

What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance generally covers dental procedures related to accidents and illnesses, but most routine procedures, such as cleanings and checkups, are not covered unless you purchase a wellness add-on. Accidents include sudden injuries like broken or chipped teeth, while illnesses develop over time, like gingivitis, periodontal disease or tooth abscesses.

Coverage varies by provider, but procedures usually include:

• Accident-related treatments: Broken or chipped teeth from trauma, such as dog fights or falls
• Illness-related treatments: Gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth abscesses
• Tooth extractions: If required due to injury or disease
• X-rays and diagnostic imaging: To assess fractures, abscesses or other dental issues

What dental procedures are excluded from pet insurance?

Pet insurance can help cover dental procedures, but certain exclusions are common across many policies.

• Routine preventive care: Standard policies don’t cover regular cleanings, dental chews or checkups. While some providers, like Embrace Pet Insurance, offer optional wellness plans for preventive care, basic dental cleanings are typically excluded.
• Cosmetic procedures: Treatments like orthodontics, teeth whitening and caps are generally not covered. Lemonade, for example, specifically excludes orthodontic treatments.
• Preexisting conditions: Most pet insurance policies don’t cover dental issues that existed before the policy began, such as gum disease or previously broken teeth. However, some providers, like Embrace Pet Insurance, may cover curable conditions that develop after the policy starts.
• Endodontics and orthodontics: Root canals, braces and other structural corrections are typically excluded since they are considered nonmedical or elective procedures.
• Breed-specific exclusions: Some insurance providers limit coverage for breeds prone to dental problems, such as bulldogs, Chihuahuas and dachshunds — all of which are more likely to experience overcrowded teeth or misalignment than most dogs.

How pet insurance policies handle dental claims

Filing a dental claim with pet insurance typically involves submitting documentation and waiting for the insurer’s review. Policies vary, but most providers follow a similar process.

How to file a dental claim

To file a claim, pet owners need to submit the following:

• Veterinary invoice: An itemized bill showing the procedure costs
• Medical records: Any documentation supporting the diagnosis and treatment
• Photos or videos: Additional visual proof required by some insurers (like Lemonade)

Most insurers allow claims to be filed online or via a mobile app. Providers like Embrace and ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offer digital submissions with tracking features.

Double-check your pet’s medical records before filing a claim — missing or incomplete documentation is one of the most common reasons for denial.

How claims are evaluated

Insurers review claims based on:

• Policy coverage: Does the procedure qualify for accident or illness coverage?
• Treatment necessity: Vet records and invoices confirm if the treatment was medically required.
• Preexisting conditions: If the condition existed before coverage started, it may not be covered.

How to get your pet insurance claim approved

• Submit all required documents: Missing records can delay approval.
• File within the deadline: Insurers set claim submission time limits.
• Review policy exclusions: Cleanings and preexisting conditions are often not covered.

Costs associated with dental care and insurance

Pet dental procedures can range from minor cleanings to complex surgeries, with costs varying based on severity, location and provider. According to Embrace Pet Insurance, the cost of treating periodontal disease typically ranges from $400 to $1,000, while tooth extractions or treating an abscessed tooth may cost between $200 and $700. More serious dental injuries, such as jaw fractures, can exceed $3,000 in treatment costs.

How much does pet insurance for dental typically cost?

The cost of dental coverage depends on the insurer — specifically whether dental care is included in the base plan or requires an add-on. For example, Embrace Pet Insurance includes up to $1,000 per year for dental treatments under its accident and illness policies. However, routine dental cleanings are classified as preventive care and are only covered under optional wellness plans.

Long-term savings with pet insurance for dental issues

Adding dental coverage to a pet insurance plan can help reduce long-term costs by covering accident-related injuries and common conditions like gingivitis, tooth abscesses and periodontal disease. Without coverage, pet owners could face significant out-of-pocket expenses for emergency procedures or extensive dental treatments.

Is dental insurance worth it for your pet?

Dental insurance can help offset the costs of treating common conditions like gingivitis, periodontal disease and dental injuries, but whether it’s worth the investment depends on your pet’s needs and the type of coverage available.

When dental insurance makes sense

• Your pet is at high risk for dental issues. According to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, 90% of dogs over four and 70% of cats over two develop periodontal disease. Insurance can help cover treatments and prevent high out-of-pocket expenses.
• You want financial protection for emergencies. Accidents like broken teeth or oral trauma can happen unexpectedly. Insurance helps pay for urgent procedures that might otherwise be costly.
• You want coverage for major treatments. While adding dental coverage increases premiums, it may offset expensive procedures like tooth extractions or jaw surgery.

When dental insurance may not be necessary

• You only need routine care. Most plans don’t cover cleanings unless you purchase a wellness add-on. If preventive care is your priority, insurance may not be the best option.
• Your pet has preexisting conditions. Dental issues that existed before coverage started are usually not covered. Review your pet’s history before enrolling.
• Your pet's breed has limited coverage. Some insurers exclude dental coverage for certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic (flat-faced) and toy dogs. Even if your dog’s condition requires treatment, it may not be covered if the insurer considers it a breed-specific issue.

Alternative ways to manage dental costs

• Set aside savings for potential dental emergencies.
• Buy a wellness plan to cover routine cleanings.
• Compare costs between veterinarians to find affordable treatment options.

Carefully reviewing policy exclusions, coverage limits and your pet’s risk factors can help you determine whether dental insurance is a worthwhile investment.

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How to choose the best pet insurance for dental coverage

Comparing policies can help you choose insurance that best fits your pet’s dental needs and your budget.

Factors to consider:

• Coverage for accidents and illnesses: Look for plans that cover both accident-related dental issues, like broken teeth, and dental illnesses, like periodontal disease.
• Exclusions and limitations: Many plans do not cover routine cleanings or preexisting conditions, so review policy details carefully.
• Cost vs. coverage balance: Comprehensive plans with dental coverage typically have higher premiums, while basic plans may be more affordable but leave you with higher out-of-pocket costs for major treatments.

Benefits of comprehensive dental coverage:

• It reduces long-term expenses by covering costly procedures like tooth extractions and periodontal disease treatments.
• It ensures access to necessary treatments without financial strain.
• It covers unexpected dental injuries to help with emergency vet bills.

Comparison tips:

• Read the fine print to understand what's covered and excluded.
• Check for breed-specific considerations since some breeds are prone to dental issues.
• Balance cost and coverage to find a plan that fits your budget while meeting your pet’s needs.
• Ask questions — contact insurers directly if you need clarification on policy terms.

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