Yes, since teeth extraction is typically done either in case of an illness or an accident, pet insurance plans can help cover its cost, as long as it is not a pre-existing condition, and symptoms do not occur during the waiting period. There are certain conditions, though.
Before we get to the cost of teeth extraction and the conditions your pet insurer will put forward the moment you submit a claim, we feel it is important to know a little more about pets and their teeth and the causes of tooth extraction.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Tooth Removal?
Yes, an accident and illness pet insurance plan can help cover a tooth extraction, but only if it is not part of any pre-existing condition and if the policy’s waiting period is over before the pet develops the condition.
Tooth Extraction in Dogs
Tooth extraction in dogs is a very common procedure, often done to remove diseased and painful teeth. While common, the procedure can get complicated depending on the underlying medical condition causing the removal.
The procedure usually involves administering general anesthesia to the dog followed by separating the tooth from the surrounding tissues to remove it. The hole is then either treated with medication or is sutured closed to help the healing process. (1)
The main question is what causes tooth extraction and whether it can be avoided.
Read More: Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental?
Causes of Tooth Extraction in Dogs
Dogs have teeth similar to us, but 10 more in number when it comes to adult teeth. The reasons for tooth removal are also similar. It is either a medical condition that has caused damage to the roots or gums, or an accident that has resulted in a broken or fractured tooth.
The common causes of tooth extraction in dogs include – (1)
Periodontal disease – It is caused by the build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth and under the gums. They damage the teeth and lead to inflammation, and hence, pain to the dog. Removing the damaged tooth can help make it better for the dog.
Overcrowding or misalignment – If the milk teeth don’t fall off before the adult teeth start to grow, it can lead to overcrowding in the mouth, which can cause alignment issues. Removal may be needed here for comfort and better alignment.
Root abscess – It is a build-up of pus in the teeth or gums caused by an infection. If left untreated, it can spread to the dog’s jaw, neck and even head. Tooth removal is the preferred treatment here.
Tumor – Yes, tumors can even grow inside the mouth. Some can even be cancerous. In case the tumor is to be removed, the surrounding teeth may need to be extracted.
Resorption – With age, teeth and surrounding structures can break down and lead to instability. Extraction of such teeth becomes important to limit damage.
We didn’t particularly say this article was going to be only about dogs. So, here’s some information about cats as well.
Tooth Extraction in Cats
Cats do not have any kind of special teeth. They are the same as dogs and us, humans. However, the number of adult teeth in this case is 30. The 26 milk teeth are all replaced by the adult ones by the time the cat turns six months old.
As these adult teeth emerge, it is common for cats to have mild inflammation in their gums. There’s nothing to worry about here, but if the milk teeth don’t fall off properly, there can be a reason to worry. An extraction may be needed in that case.
This is not the only reason for teeth extraction in cats. There are more.
Causes of Tooth Extraction in Cats
The causes of tooth extraction in cats are again not very different from those of dogs. They include –
A gum disease like periodontitis, gingivitis, feline resorptive lesions (FRLs), etc. A study shows that more than 70% of cats over five years have at least one FRL. (3)
Broken or fractured teeth
Baby teeth that didn’t come out properly
Oral tumors
The lower jaw growing faster than the upper one causing an underbite
Feline stomatitis, a painful condition that causes severe gum inflammation
Excessive wear
Resorption
A study found that over 85% of cats develop dental disease, typically gum disease or tooth resorption, before the age of two. (4)
Cost of Tooth Extraction in Dogs
The cost of tooth extraction in dogs could be as low as $50 for a simple procedure and as high as $500 for a complex one. The total bill, however, would include more things like anesthesia, IV fluids, medication, dental X-rays, and dental cleaning. Expect to spend around $100-$400 more on them depending on the type and location of the facility you choose. (2)
Cost of Tooth Extraction in Cats
The cost of tooth extraction in cats will again depend on the complexity of the case. Without any, a simple procedure may cost you only about $100 per tooth. But complex procedures can cost you around $500 per tooth. You may even need to spend $100-$400 more on things like a physical exam, oral X-rays, blood work, etc. (2)
In case your dog/cat has a broken jaw, the surgery costs there could be very high. Not all jaw fractures may need surgery but the ones that do will cost around $1000-$3000 depending on the complexity2.
(Don’t worry, we are coming to the conditions we mentioned above)
Read More About Cat Dental Insurance Here
How to avoid tooth extraction in pets?
Just like they say, prevention is better than cure, and the best way to avoid a tooth extraction is to follow good dental hygiene for your pet. Here’s how you can do that –
Daily brushing
Dental chews
Food and water additives that are seaweed-based
Professional dental cleaning once every 3-4 months (because they can reach those places in your pet’s mouth that you cannot)
And most importantly, regular vet visits to ensure the development of any disease is spotted and treated early
With Spot Pet Insurance, you can get help covering the cost of tooth extractions and oral surgeries with the accidents and illnesses plan. We also have a wellness add-on that can help cover the cost of dental cleaning, prescription diets, alternate therapies and much more.
More about Spot Pet Insurance
Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:
Covers Unexpected Veterinary Costs: Spot pet insurance plans help cover the eligible costs of unexpected veterinary treatments, such as emergency surgeries, X-rays, and prescription medications for covered conditions.
Customizable Plans: Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and create the plan that will fit the needs of your pet and your budget.
Peace of Mind: With Spot pet insurance plans, pet parents can know that they can provide the best care for their pet with less worry about the cost.
To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.
With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
Kleszynski, B., DVM. (2024, October 18). Dog tooth extractions: What to expect. PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/dog/procedure/dog-tooth-extraction
Myers, J., & Myers, J. (2024, May 18). How much do canine tooth extractions and jaw surgery cost? Vetster Online Vets. https://vetster.com/en/wellness/how-much-do-canine-tooth-extractions-and-jaw-surgery-cost
Scource, B. (2023, June 15). Dental Disease in Cats | International Cat Care. International Cat Care. https://icatcare.org/advice/dental-disease-in-cats/
Myers, J., & Myers, J. (2024, May 24). How much do cat oral surgery and tooth extractions cost? Vetster Online Vets. https://vetster.com/en/wellness/how-much-do-cat-oral-surgery-and-tooth-extractions-cost
