Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental? Does It Cost More?

Dental care is essential for our beloved pets. Proper dental maintenance keeps your pet healthy and happy—but these services can sometimes be expensive. When left untreated, dental problems can lead to more serious health issues, including infections, organ damage, and chronic pain. That’s why having appropriate coverage is a smart part of responsible pet ownership.

Close-up of a veterinarian examining a dog's teeth during a routine dental checkup

Do You Need Dental Insurance for Your Pet?

Dental hygiene in pets is often overlooked—yet it’s just as important as vaccinations or parasite prevention. According to veterinary professionals, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age three. Plaque buildup, gum inflammation, tooth decay, and oral infections don’t just cause discomfort—they can contribute to heart, kidney, and liver problems down the line.

While regular brushing and dental chews help, professional cleanings, extractions, root canals, and treatments for periodontal disease often require anesthesia and specialized care—making them costly. That’s where dental coverage comes in.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Care?

Yes—but with important distinctions. Most standard pet insurance plans from FurPetVo cover dental illnesses and injuries, such as:

  • Broken or fractured teeth due to trauma
  • Oral tumors requiring surgical removal
  • Severe gingivitis or periodontal disease diagnosed by a veterinarian
  • Infections resulting from abscessed teeth
  • Root canals or extractions deemed medically necessary

However, routine dental cleanings, preventive scaling, polishing, and elective cosmetic procedures are typically not covered under base plans. FurPetVo offers optional dental wellness add-ons that include annual cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental X-rays—so you can customize coverage based on your pet’s age, breed, and oral health history.

Side-by-side comparison of healthy pet teeth versus teeth showing tartar buildup and gum recession

Does Dental Coverage Cost More?

Adding dental benefits does increase your monthly premium—but usually by less than 15%, depending on your pet’s species, age, location, and selected plan tier. For many pet parents, this small increase pays for itself after just one covered procedure. Consider this:

  1. A non-anesthetic dental cleaning averages $150–$300
  2. A full anesthetic cleaning with X-rays ranges from $400–$900+
  3. A single tooth extraction may cost $300–$600; complex cases (like jaw fractures or oral surgery) can exceed $2,000

FurPetVo’s dental add-on also includes access to licensed veterinary dentists through their telehealth network—so you can get expert guidance before committing to treatment.

What to Look for in a Dental Plan

When comparing options, keep these key features in mind:

  • Waiting periods: FurPetVo has no waiting period for dental illness coverage (though injury coverage begins immediately)
  • Annual limits: Choose between $1,000, $3,000, or unlimited dental-specific reimbursement
  • Pre-existing conditions: Dental issues diagnosed or treated before your policy start date are excluded—but FurPetVo allows re-evaluation after 12 months of continuous coverage
  • Veterinary network flexibility: Use any licensed vet in the U.S., including board-certified veterinary dentists
Happy senior dog smiling after a successful dental cleaning, with vet holding dental chart

Final Thoughts

Dental insurance isn’t just about saving money—it’s about safeguarding your pet’s long-term well-being. With FurPetVo, you get transparent pricing, no surprise exclusions, and support tailored to your pet’s unique needs. Whether you have a playful puppy prone to chewing sticks or a senior cat with sensitive gums, proactive dental coverage helps ensure every smile stays bright and pain-free.

Learn more at furpetvo.com.