What is dental care?
Dental care is one of the most important things you can do for your pet’s health. Regular checkups and cleanings can help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy and prevent serious problems from developing. If not treated properly, your pet can experience severe pain, making it difficult to eat, sleep and play. Additionally, the longer you wait, the more expensive it can be to treat your pet for any dental problems.
Dental care is offered in conjunction with your traditional pet insurance plan. In most cases, owners pay a monthly fee for the annual premium and receive reimbursement for certain percentages of their upfront dental costs paid out of pocket after paying the deductible. Not all pet insurance policies cover dental treatment, so it’s important to carefully compare the details between policies to find what works best for you and your pet.
What does dental care cover?
Dental coverage varies greatly by pet insurer. Some offer no dental coverage at all. Some will only cover dental accidents. Some pet insurance policies cover routine dental care, including exams, cleanings and x-rays, but only as part of their routine care plan. There are three general types of dental coverage:
- Dental Injury: These are injuries such as cracked, chipped or fractured teeth.
- Dental disease: Certain diseases can affect your pet’s teeth, such as periodontal disease, gingivitis, and stomatitis. There are some policies that cover extensive treatment such as root canals, extractions and crowns.
- Routine dental care: Includes preventive care such as teeth cleaning, toothbrushes and dental checkups. These services are usually an add-on to your existing plan.
A regular care schedule will add to the cost of your plan, but it can be worth it as it can offset the cost of dental cleanings and keep your pet’s teeth healthier. Each pet insurance policy offers different dental care coverage and has certain requirements that you must meet. For example, some insurers require you to submit records with your claim showing that a teeth cleaning was completed in the previous year under general anesthesia for dental coverage.
What is not covered by dental care?
Although every policy is different, most do not cover pre-existing dental conditions. They also usually do not include routine dental care such as teeth cleaning, toothbrushes and dental food. Many pet insurance providers offer supplemental wellness or routine dental care plans that can reimburse you for the cost of your pet’s dental cleaning.
Generally, anything resulting from inadequate dental care is not covered. Also any dental care that is considered cosmetic is not covered unless medically necessary. Most pet insurance companies also have a limit on dental coverage. That’s why it’s important to find a pet insurance plan that offers the type of dental coverage you need.
How much does dental care cost?
The cost to clean your dog’s teeth can range from $300 to $700. Dental procedures like extractions can cost thousands of dollars. Some pet insurance companies cover dental care under their comprehensive or accident and illness plans. On average, the monthly cost for full insurance is $30 for cats and $50 for dogs.
Regular dental care typically costs $20-$25 per month as a stand-alone plan. Some pet insurance policies either offer it as part of a standard policy or it can be added to a plan for an additional fee. Not all plans are the same, so it’s important to read and compare policies carefully.
Is pet dental care worth it?
Dental care can be expensive, but it’s worth taking care of all aspects of your pet’s health. There is no doubt that pets are an important part of many people’s lives. Not only do they bring us companionship and joy, but they can also act as an important support system during difficult times. Oral health is an important part of their health. According to the American Veterinary Dental Association, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three.
Many veterinarians believe that oral health problems in pets can be linked to behavioral problems such as chewing and anxiety, making good oral hygiene even more important for both pets and their companions. Regular dental care for pets also has many benefits that go far beyond reducing plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth. Maintaining healthy gums and teeth can have a positive impact on a pet’s overall well-being, preventing infection and minimizing systemic problems such as heart disease and diabetes.
Take care of your pet’s teeth
When it comes to caring for your pet’s teeth, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Practicing preventative care for your pet will keep dental problems at bay or prevent any problems from getting worse. Provide your pet with a high quality diet that is full of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Feeding your pet a healthy and balanced diet on a regular basis will help keep their teeth and gums strong and healthy.
In addition, you should make sure that you clean your pet’s teeth regularly. This can be done by brushing them with a special pet toothbrush and toothpaste, or simply giving your pets chew toys or treats that act as oral care tools. Staying on top of these basic steps will help keep your pet’s teeth nice and clean, ensuring optimal oral health for years to come.
It’s understandable that many pet owners want to take the best possible care of their furry friends. And for many people, that means investing in regular dental care for their pets. Regular dental care for our beloved pets can have a significant positive impact on their health and happiness, so for many pet owners, investing in their oral health seems like a small price to pay. Remember, it’s important to find a pet insurance plan that fits both your needs and your budget. And be sure to read the fine print so you understand what is and isn’t covered by your policy.
