Pet Insurance That Covers Dental for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Pet insurance that covers dental for dogs is becoming increasingly crucial for pet owners who want to ensure their canine companions receive the best possible care. Dental health is a vital aspect of a dog’s overall well-being, and having insurance that covers dental procedures can save owners from unexpected and costly veterinary bills while ensuring their pets maintain optimal oral health.

Understanding Pet Insurance

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What is Pet Insurance?

Pet insurance is a financial product designed to help pet owners manage the costs associated with veterinary care. It typically covers unexpected illnesses, injuries, and in some cases, routine care. The primary goal is to provide peace of mind and financial protection for pet owners.

According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), the pet insurance industry has been growing rapidly. In 2021, the total number of insured pets in North America reached 4.41 million, a 27.7% increase from the previous year. This growth indicates a rising awareness among pet owners about the importance of financial protection for their pets’ health.

Types of Pet Insurance Coverage

Accident-only plans: These basic plans cover injuries resulting from accidents, such as broken bones or ingestion of foreign objects.
Accident and illness plans: The most common type of pet insurance, these plans cover both accidents and a wide range of illnesses, including cancer, infections, and digestive problems.
Wellness plans: Often offered as add-ons, these plans cover routine preventive care such as vaccinations, annual check-ups, and sometimes dental cleanings.
Comprehensive plans: These all-inclusive plans typically combine accident, illness, and wellness coverage, often including dental care.

A 2021 survey by Liberty Mutual Insurance found that 63% of pet owners would consider purchasing pet insurance if it covered routine care, including dental. This statistic underscores the growing demand for comprehensive coverage that includes dental care for dogs.

The Importance of Dental Coverage for Dogs

Dental health is often overlooked in pets, but it’s crucial for their overall well-being. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that by the age of three, 80% of dogs show signs of oral disease. Poor dental hygiene can lead to serious health issues, including:

Periodontal disease: This is the most common clinical condition in adult dogs. According to the American Veterinary Dental College, periodontal disease affects 80% of dogs by age two. It can lead to tooth loss, chronic pain, and even systemic infections.
Tooth loss: A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry found that 42% of dogs over age seven have at least one missing tooth. This can significantly impact a dog’s ability to eat and their quality of life.
Infections that can spread to other organs: Oral bacteria from dental diseases can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. A study in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association found that dogs with periodontal disease are at higher risk for heart, kidney, and liver disease.
Chronic pain: Dental issues can cause significant discomfort for dogs, often unnoticed by owners until the problem becomes severe.

Having insurance that covers dental procedures ensures that your dog can receive necessary treatments without causing financial strain. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and treatments for dental diseases, can significantly improve a dog’s overall health and longevity.

Key Features of Dog Dental Insurance

When looking for pet insurance that covers dental for dogs, consider the following key features:

Comprehensive dental coverage: Look for plans that cover both routine dental care and major dental procedures. This should include cleanings, extractions, and treatments for dental diseases.
Preventive care: Some plans include coverage for regular dental cleanings and check-ups. These preventive measures can help catch dental issues early, potentially saving on more expensive treatments down the line.
Treatment for dental diseases: Ensure the policy covers treatment for common dental issues like periodontal disease. This is crucial given the high prevalence of dental diseases in dogs.
Coverage for accidents: Protection against dental injuries caused by accidents, such as broken teeth from chewing on hard objects.
Waiting periods: Be aware of any waiting periods before dental coverage becomes active. These can range from 14 days to several months, depending on the insurer and the type of coverage.
Annual limits: Check if there are specific annual limits for dental coverage. Some policies may have separate limits for dental care within their overall annual coverage limit.
Exclusions: Understand what dental conditions or treatments may be excluded. For example, some policies may not cover cosmetic dental procedures or pre-existing dental conditions.
Reimbursement rates: Look at the percentage of costs the insurance will cover for dental procedures. This typically ranges from 70% to 90% of the bill after the deductible.

Top 5 Pet Insurance Providers with Dental Coverage

Pets Best
- Website: www.petsbest.com
- Features:
  - Offers routine dental cleaning coverage in wellness plans
  - Covers treatment for periodontal disease
  - No per-incident limits on dental treatments
- Unique selling point: Provides direct veterinarian payments, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for pet owners
- Coverage details: Includes coverage for dental illnesses and injuries in their BestBenefit plans
Embrace Pet Insurance
- Website: www.embracepetinsurance.com
- Features:
  - Covers dental accidents and illnesses
  - Offers optional wellness rewards program for routine dental care
  - Provides coverage for extractions and reconstructive surgery due to accidents
- Unique selling point: Offers a diminishing deductible feature, where the annual deductible decreases by $50 each year you don’t receive a claim reimbursement
- Coverage details: Includes coverage for periodontal disease and orthodontic conditions if not pre-existing
Nationwide Pet Insurance
- Website: www.petinsurance.com
- Features:
  - Offers dental coverage in their Whole Pet with Wellness plan
  - Covers dental diseases and injuries
  - Includes coverage for annual dental cleanings
- Unique selling point: One of the few providers that offer coverage for exotic pets, including dental care
- Coverage details: Their comprehensive plan covers periodontal disease, extractions, and even some orthodontic treatments
Trupanion
- Website: www.trupanion.com
- Features:
  - Covers dental injuries and illnesses
  - No payout limits for dental treatments
  - 90% reimbursement on eligible claims
- Unique selling point: Offers a unique “Vet Direct Pay” option, where they can pay the veterinarian directly at the time of checkout
- Coverage details: Covers dental trauma and illnesses, including extractions and reconstructive surgery
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
- Website: www.aspcapetinsurance.com
- Features:
  - Covers dental accidents and illnesses
  - Optional preventive care coverage for dental cleanings
  - Customizable plans to fit various budgets
- Unique selling point: Offers coverage for behavioral issues, which can sometimes be related to dental pain or discomfort
- Coverage details: Covers tooth extractions, root canals, and crowns when medically necessary

Comparing Pet Insurance Plans with Dental Coverage

When comparing pet insurance plans that cover dental for dogs, consider the following factors:

Coverage limits: Some plans have annual or lifetime limits on dental coverage. For example, Pets Best has no per-incident limits, while others might cap dental coverage at a certain amount per year.
Reimbursement rates: Look for plans with higher reimbursement percentages for dental procedures. Trupanion offers a 90% reimbursement rate, which is on the higher end of the spectrum.
Deductibles: Consider how the deductible applies to dental treatments. Some plans have an annual deductible, while others might have a per-incident deductible.
Exclusions: Be aware of any specific dental conditions or treatments that may be excluded. For instance, most plans don’t cover cosmetic dental procedures.
Waiting periods: Check how long you must wait before dental coverage becomes effective. This can range from 14 days for accidents to 6 months for certain illnesses.
Pre-existing conditions: Understand how pre-existing dental issues are handled. Most insurers won’t cover pre-existing conditions, but some may cover them if they’ve been cured for a certain period.
Preventive care coverage: Some plans, like Embrace’s Wellness Rewards program, offer coverage for routine dental cleanings, which can be crucial for preventing more serious dental issues.
Claim process: Look into how easy it is to file a claim for dental procedures. Some providers, like Trupanion, offer direct pay to veterinarians, which can be convenient.

Cost Factors for Pet Dental Insurance

Several factors can influence the cost of pet insurance that covers dental for dogs:

Age of the dog: Older dogs typically have higher premiums due to increased health risks. For example, a policy for a 2-year-old dog might cost 50% less than the same policy for an 8-year-old dog.
Breed: Some breeds are prone to dental issues, which may affect pricing. Smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers often have higher dental care needs, potentially leading to higher premiums.
Location: Veterinary costs vary by region, impacting insurance rates. Urban areas with higher living costs often have more expensive veterinary care and, consequently, higher insurance premiums.
Coverage level: More comprehensive dental coverage usually means higher premiums. A plan that covers routine dental care in addition to accidents and illnesses will cost more than a basic accident-only plan.
Deductible and reimbursement choices: Higher deductibles and lower reimbursement rates can lower premiums. For example, choosing a $500 deductible instead of a $250 deductible could lower your premium by 10-20%.
Annual limits: Plans with higher annual limits will generally have higher premiums. Unlimited plans typically cost 20-40% more than plans with a $5,000 annual limit.

According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, the average annual premium for accident and illness coverage for dogs in 2021 was $583.91. However, this can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above and the inclusion of dental coverage.

Benefits of Having Dental Coverage for Your Dog

Financial protection: Dental procedures can be expensive. For example, a tooth extraction can cost $500-$800 per tooth, while treatment for severe periodontal disease can run $1,000-$1,500. Having insurance can significantly reduce these out-of-pocket expenses.
Preventive care: Insurance often encourages regular dental check-ups and cleanings, which can prevent more serious and costly issues down the line. Regular dental cleanings can cost $300-$700, but can save thousands in potential treatments for advanced dental disease.
Early detection: Regular dental exams covered by insurance can catch issues early. For instance, early-stage periodontal disease can often be managed with a thorough cleaning, while advanced stages may require extractions or oral surgery.
Peace of mind: Knowing that you’re financially prepared for your dog’s dental health needs can reduce stress and allow you to make decisions based on your pet’s health rather than financial constraints.
Improved overall health: Good dental health contributes to better overall well-being for your dog. Studies have shown that dogs with good dental health live, on average, 2-5 years longer than those with poor dental health.

Common Dental Procedures Covered by Pet Insurance

Routine dental cleanings: Professional cleaning and scaling of teeth, typically costing $300-$700 depending on location and the dog’s size.
Tooth extractions: Removal of damaged or diseased teeth. Costs can range from $100-$300 per tooth for simple extractions to $500-$800 for surgical extractions.
Treatment for periodontal disease: Including deep cleaning, antibiotic treatment, and possibly surgery. Costs can range from $500 for early-stage treatment to $1,500 or more for advanced cases.
Dental X-rays: To diagnose hidden dental issues, typically costing $150-$250.
Oral surgery: For more complex dental problems or injuries. Costs can range from $500 for minor procedures to $3,000 or more for major reconstructive surgery.
Root canals: To save severely damaged teeth, typically costing $1,000-$3,000 per tooth.
Crowns and fillings: For repairing damaged teeth. Costs can range from $500-$1,500 per tooth depending on the material used and the extent of the damage.

How to Choose the Right Dental Insurance for Your Dog

Assess your dog’s needs: Consider your dog’s age, breed, and current dental health. For example, if you have a breed prone to dental issues like a Pug or a Yorkie, you might want more comprehensive dental coverage.
Compare coverage options: Look at what different plans offer in terms of dental coverage. Some may only cover accidents, while others include illness and preventive care.
Consider your budget: Balance monthly premiums with potential out-of-pocket costs. A plan with a higher premium but more comprehensive coverage might save you money in the long run if your dog needs significant dental work.
Read the fine print: Understand exclusions, waiting periods, and claim processes. Pay particular attention to how pre-existing conditions are defined and handled.
Check for customization: Some plans allow you to add or remove dental coverage. This flexibility can help you tailor the policy to your dog’s specific needs.
Look at customer reviews: See what other pet owners say about their experiences with different insurers, particularly regarding dental claims.
Consult your veterinarian: Get their input on what type of dental coverage might be most beneficial for your dog based on its breed, age, and health history.

Tips for Maintaining Your Dog’s Dental Health

While having insurance is important, maintaining your dog’s dental health can help prevent issues and keep costs down:

Regular brushing: Brush your dog’s teeth daily or at least several times a week. Studies show that daily brushing can reduce plaque by up to 95%.
Dental chews and toys: Provide dental-friendly chews and toys to help clean teeth. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
Dental-friendly diet: Consider foods formulated to promote dental health. Some specially designed kibbles can reduce tartar build-up by up to 55%.
Regular check-ups: Schedule annual dental exams with your veterinarian, even if your dog’s teeth appear healthy.
Watch for signs of dental issues: Bad breath, difficulty eating, or visible tartar buildup can all indicate dental problems. Early detection can prevent more serious issues.

The Claims Process for Dental Procedures

Understanding how to file a claim for dental procedures is crucial:

Keep detailed records: Save all invoices and treatment notes from your veterinarian. This documentation is crucial for a smooth claims process.
Check your policy: Understand what dental procedures are covered before filing a claim. This can prevent surprises and denied claims.
File promptly: Most insurers have a time limit for filing claims after treatment, typically 90 days. Filing quickly can ensure you don’t miss the deadline.
Provide all required information: Include a completed claim form and all necessary documentation. This usually includes the invoice, medical records, and sometimes before and after photos for dental procedures.
Follow up: Keep track of your claim’s progress and respond promptly to any requests for additional information. Most insurers process claims within 5-10 business days, but it can take longer if additional information is needed.

Future Trends in Pet Dental Insurance

The pet insurance industry is evolving, and several trends are emerging in dental coverage:

Increased focus on preventive care: More plans are likely to cover routine dental cleanings as the importance of preventive care becomes more recognized.
Telemedicine options: Some insurers may offer virtual dental consultations, allowing for quick assessments and advice on whether an in-person visit is necessary.
Customizable plans: Expect more flexibility in choosing specific dental coverages to tailor plans to individual needs.
Integration with pet health apps: Insurance may be linked with apps that track your dog’s dental health, potentially offering discounts for good dental care habits.
Advanced treatment coverage: As veterinary dentistry advances, insurance may cover more sophisticated procedures such as dental implants or advanced orthodontics. This trend reflects the growing sophistication of veterinary dental care and pet owners’ willingness to invest in their pets’ oral health.
AI-powered risk assessment: Insurance companies may start using artificial intelligence to analyze a dog’s dental health history and predict future issues, allowing for more personalized premium pricing and coverage recommendations.
Bundled wellness packages: More insurers may offer comprehensive wellness packages that include dental care alongside other preventive services, encouraging holistic pet health management.

FAQs About Pet Insurance That Covers Dental for Dogs

Q: Does pet insurance cover pre-existing dental conditions? A: Generally, most pet insurance plans do not cover pre-existing dental conditions. However, some insurers may cover conditions that have been fully cured for a certain period, typically 6-12 months. It’s crucial to enroll your dog in insurance while they’re young and healthy to ensure maximum coverage.
Q: How often can I claim for dental cleanings? A: This varies by policy. Some plans cover annual cleanings as part of preventive care, while others may allow more frequent cleanings for dogs prone to dental issues. For example, Pets Best’s wellness rider covers two dental cleanings per year, while many other plans cover one annual cleaning.
Q: Are there age limits for dental coverage? A: Many insurers have upper age limits for enrolling in dental coverage, typically between 10-14 years old. However, if you enroll your dog before this age limit, coverage usually continues for life. Premiums generally increase as your dog ages, reflecting the higher risk of dental issues in older dogs.
Q: Can I use any veterinarian for dental procedures? A: Most pet insurance plans allow you to use any licensed veterinarian, including dental specialists. However, some may have preferred providers or networks that offer additional benefits. For instance, Trupanion’s Vet Direct Pay option works with specific veterinary practices to pay them directly at the time of service.
Q: How long do I have to wait before dental coverage becomes effective? A: Waiting periods for dental coverage can vary from 14 days to several months, depending on the insurer and the type of coverage. For example, Embrace Pet Insurance has a 14-day waiting period for accidents and a 6-month waiting period for illnesses, including dental diseases.
Q: Are orthodontic procedures for dogs covered by pet insurance? A: Orthodontic procedures are rarely covered by standard pet insurance plans. These are often considered cosmetic unless medically necessary. However, some comprehensive plans may cover orthodontic treatments if they’re deemed essential for the dog’s health and well-being.
Q: How does the reimbursement process work for dental claims? A: Typically, you pay the veterinarian upfront and then submit a claim to your insurer. The insurer will reimburse you based on your policy’s terms, usually a percentage of the covered costs after your deductible. Reimbursement rates commonly range from 70% to 90%. Some insurers, like Trupanion, offer direct pay options to veterinarians, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Q: Can I add dental coverage to an existing pet insurance policy? A: Some insurers allow you to add dental coverage as a rider to an existing policy, while others may require you to switch to a more comprehensive plan. For example, Pets Best allows you to add a wellness rider that includes dental cleanings to their BestBenefit plans.
Q: Are there any breed-specific exclusions for dental coverage? A: Some breeds prone to dental issues may face higher premiums or specific exclusions. For instance, brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, which are prone to dental overcrowding, might have limitations on coverage for certain dental procedures. It’s important to check the policy details for any breed-specific clauses.
Q: How do insurers determine the cost of dental coverage for dogs? A: Insurers consider factors such as the dog’s age, breed, location, and the level of coverage selected. They also factor in the average cost of dental procedures in your area and statistical data on breed-specific dental issues. For example, a policy for a 5-year-old Chihuahua in New York City will likely cost more than the same coverage for a 2-year-old Labrador in a rural area, due to both the breed’s predisposition to dental issues and the higher veterinary costs in urban areas.

Conclusion

Pet insurance that covers dental for dogs is an invaluable investment in your furry friend’s health and your financial peace of mind. With dental issues affecting the majority of dogs, comprehensive coverage can save owners thousands in veterinary bills while ensuring optimal care for their pets. By understanding the various options available, comparing plans, and maintaining good dental hygiene practices, you can ensure that your dog receives the best possible dental care without breaking the bank.

Remember that the best time to invest in pet insurance with dental coverage is when your dog is young and healthy. This approach ensures maximum coverage and can help prevent many dental issues through regular check-ups and cleanings. As the pet insurance industry continues to evolve, we can expect even more tailored and comprehensive dental coverage options in the future.

Ultimately, the goal of pet insurance with dental coverage is to allow pet owners to make decisions based on their dog’s health needs rather than financial constraints. By choosing the right plan and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can help your canine companion enjoy a healthier, happier life with a bright, pain-free smile.