Is Dental Cleaning Covered by Pet Insurance?
Dental health is an essential part of your pet’s overall well-being, and regular dental cleanings are necessary to prevent periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues. As a pet owner, you may wonder if pet insurance covers the cost of routine dental cleanings. In this guide, we will discuss whether dental cleaning is typically covered by pet insurance, what you need to know about policies, and what options are available for covering dental care.
What Is Dental Cleaning for Pets?
Dental cleaning for pets is a professional procedure performed by a veterinarian or veterinary technician to remove plaque and tartar buildup from a pet’s teeth. This cleaning helps prevent dental diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. Dental cleanings usually involve:
- Scaling and polishing the teeth to remove plaque and tartar
- Examination of the gums and teeth for signs of decay or infection
- Professional cleaning under anesthesia to ensure the safety and comfort of the pet
While routine cleanings are important for preventing dental issues, many pet owners want to know if their pet insurance will cover the cost of this procedure.
Is Dental Cleaning Covered by Pet Insurance?
The coverage of dental cleaning depends on the type of pet insurance policy you have. Generally, most standard pet insurance policies do not cover routine or preventative dental cleanings. However, there are exceptions and additional options you can explore. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Routine or Preventative Dental Care
Most pet insurance providers classify dental cleaning as a routine or preventative service, which is typically not covered under standard accident and illness pet insurance policies. Routine care, such as dental cleanings, vaccinations, and wellness exams, is generally not included in basic coverage plans.
However, some insurance providers may offer additional wellness or preventative care plans that include coverage for dental cleanings. These plans may help cover the cost of annual dental cleanings, as well as other preventive measures like vaccinations and flea treatments.
2. Dental Cleanings as Part of Illness Treatment
In certain cases, dental cleanings may be covered if they are medically necessary due to an underlying illness or condition. For example, if your pet has a dental infection or periodontal disease, the cleaning may be considered part of the treatment plan, and it could be covered by your pet insurance policy.
If your pet is suffering from conditions such as:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontal disease
- Tooth abscesses
- Dental infections
Dental cleaning may be covered as part of the medical treatment for these issues. However, this will depend on your policy and the reason for the cleaning. Always check your policy for specific terms regarding dental care related to medical conditions.
3. Pet Insurance Policies with Dental Care Coverage
Some pet insurance policies do offer coverage for dental care, including dental cleanings. These plans typically provide coverage for dental work related to medical conditions but may not cover routine cleanings. Here are some things to look for when choosing a plan with dental care coverage:
- Dental Care Add-ons: Some pet insurers offer optional dental care add-ons that cover dental cleaning and treatments. These plans often include coverage for both preventative dental care and treatment for dental conditions.
- Accident and Illness Plans with Dental Coverage: Certain comprehensive accident and illness policies may include dental care for dental problems caused by accidents or illnesses, such as broken teeth or oral infections.
- Preventative Care Coverage: Wellness or preventative care plans may include routine dental cleanings, checkups, and other preventative measures to ensure your pet’s dental health is maintained.
How to Find Pet Insurance That Covers Dental Cleanings
If you want your pet’s dental cleaning to be covered by insurance, here are a few steps to find a policy that includes dental coverage:
- Look for Wellness Plans: Some pet insurance providers offer wellness plans or add-ons that include dental cleaning as part of their routine care coverage. Make sure to review these plans to see what is covered.
- Check for Medical-Related Dental Coverage: If your pet needs dental cleaning due to a medical issue (such as periodontal disease or an oral infection), look for an insurance policy that covers dental care as part of the medical treatment.
- Review the Policy Terms: Carefully review the policy details to determine whether routine dental care is included or if it’s excluded. Ask the insurer directly about what is covered under their dental care policies.
- Consider the Cost: Be aware that policies with dental coverage may come with higher premiums, so it’s important to balance the cost of the plan with the coverage it provides.
What to Do If Dental Cleanings Are Not Covered
If your pet insurance doesn’t cover dental cleanings, there are a few alternatives to help manage the cost:
- Save for Dental Care: Consider setting aside money in a pet savings account specifically for dental care to ensure you can afford routine cleanings when needed.
- Look for Dental Financing Options: Some veterinary clinics offer payment plans or financing options for dental procedures, allowing you to pay for cleanings over time.
- Use a Pet Wellness Credit Card: Some pet owners use credit cards with rewards or financing options designed for veterinary care, including dental work, to spread out the cost.
