Peace of mind about your pet’s dental health

We all want our pets to stay happy and healthy, and that includes taking care of their teeth. Just like us, animals can suffer from dental problems that cause pain and lead to bigger health issues (not to mention unexpected vet bills).

Pet insurance with dental cover can make a real difference to the long-term health of your pet. But while some policies include it automatically as part of the package, others might only cover it in certain situations, or leave it out altogether.

That’s why it’s important that you decide what level of dental cover you want, and then make sure any policy you choose fits the bill. If dental care is a priority for you, there are plans out there that can give you peace of mind about your pet’s oral health.

Why is dental cover important for pets?

Dental problems are surprisingly common in pets, especially as they get older. Issues like plaque build-up, gum disease and tooth decay don’t just cause discomfort. They can also lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. In some cases, infections in the mouth can even affect organs like the heart and kidneys.

Regular dental care, including check-ups and cleanings, plays a big part in preventing these problems. But despite your best efforts, treatment may still be needed at some point, sometimes due to accidental damage to teeth. Vet bills can add up quickly, particularly if your pet needs extractions, x-rays or surgery under anaesthetic.

That’s why having dental cover in place can be so valuable. It helps make sure your pet can get the care they need, when they need it, without putting unexpected strain on your budget.

Pet dental insurance: what’s covered?

Dental cover in pet insurance can vary quite a bit depending on the provider and the policy type. In general, plans tend to cover dental treatment that's needed due to an accident, like a broken tooth from a fall or chewing something they shouldn't. But they are less likely to cover treatment for illness.

Some more comprehensive policies will also include cover for dental disease and illness. In return, they may require proof that your pet has had regular check-ups and dental care.

The cost of routine treatments like scale and polish, or preventative check-ups, are typically not covered by pet dental insurance.

It’s also common for insurers to exclude dental problems that existed before the policy started, or issues that arise if your pet hasn't had regular dental care. That’s why it’s always worth reading the small print so you know exactly what’s included and what isn’t.

How much does pet insurance with dental cover cost?

The cost of pet insurance can vary a lot – it all depends on your pet and the type of policy you choose. Some of the key factors that affect the price include:

  • The extent of dental cover: A plan that covers dental illness and accident will potentially cost more than an accident-only plan.

  • Policy limits: More generous cover limits will cost more.

  • Excess: A higher excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) usually means lower premiums.

  • Your pet’s breed: Some breeds - such as larger dog breeds - are more prone to health problems, which can increase premiums.

  • Age: Older pets usually cost more to insure (and some insurers may decline to accept pets over a certain age).

  • Where you live: Vet costs vary by location, which can impact pricing. For example, because vets in towns and cities typically charge more than those in rural areas this may be reflected in the policy premium.

  • Type of cover: The four main types of pet insurance (lifetime, accident-only, time-limited and maximum benefit) will differ - so make sure you choose the right type for your needs and your budget. Lifetime is typically the most comprehensive, and therefore the most expensive.

The best way to find out how much cover would cost for you is to compare quotes from leading pet insurance companies. That way, you can weigh up what’s included and make sure you’re getting good value.

How to keep costs down

Want to protect your pet without breaking the bank? Here are a few ways to keep your premiums manageable:

  • Insure early: Taking out a policy when your pet is young and healthy can lock in lower premiums.

  • Compare cover types: Accident-only cover is cheaper but limited. Lifetime is the most comprehensive, but the most expensive. Maximum benefit or time-limited might offer a good middle ground.

  • Consider higher excess: Choosing a higher excess can reduce your monthly cost - just make sure you can afford it if you need to claim.

  • Look at multi-pet policies: If you’ve got more than one pet, a multi-pet plan could save you money.

  • Always shop around: Not all policies are created equal – it pays to compare.

Things to consider

Before you sign up for a pet insurance policy, think about what you really need – and what you’re comfortable paying.

  • Lifetime vs time-limited: Lifetime cover costs more, but it offers ongoing protection for long-term conditions – ideal if you want full, lasting peace of mind.

  • Pre-existing conditions: These are usually excluded, but some insurers may offer cover after a symptom-free period.

  • Claim limits: Different policies have different claim limits – make sure you know what those are before buying.

  • Excess options: Make sure you understand how excess works on policies you are considering. For example, sometimes a policy will have a fixed excess, but as your pet gets older you’ll also need to pay a percentage of the treatment on top of the excess.

  • Cost vs benefit: As with most types of insurance, you may end up paying more in premiums than you ever claim for. But if you are unlucky enough to face big vet bills, you’ll be glad you have cover in place.

Pet insurance guides

Answering your questions about pet insurance with dental cover

Page updated on 18th September 2025, Reviewed by Richard Groom