You can’t claim for regular preventative treatment like a scale and polish, but you can claim for any other dental treatment you’re covered for under your policy.

Your policy documents will say whether dental treatment is covered - and if it’s for accidents only, or for accidents and illnesses.

If your pet insurance only covers dental treatment for accidents, having your dog or cat’s teeth removed will only be covered if the treatment is needed because of an accident.

For example, if your cat broke a tooth in a fall from the roof, and the tooth needed to be removed as a result.

If you’re covered for accident and illness under our Complete policy, dog and cat tooth removals should be covered as any other illness in your policy would be, as long as you’ve kept up with regular preventative care and veterinary dental appointments.

Sometimes your pet's deciduous teeth (baby teeth) don't naturally fall out as they should and your vet might recommend that they be removed as a preventative measure against plaque build-up and other problems. However, having them removed won’t be covered by your pet insurance unless the problems have been caused by an illness.

It’s quick and easy to make a claim online, but you can also claim over the phone by calling 0345 646 1213.

You’ll need to provide details of your pet’s medical history, treatment invoice, or a receipt if payment has already been made.

Your dental pet insurance claim could be refused if you haven’t kept up with any regular appointments and preventative care specified in your policy documents.

As a condition of providing our dental cover, we ask that your cat or dog has a dental check with the vet at least once a year and that you follow any vet-recommended treatment within six months.

You can look after your dog’s teeth by brushing them at home. Read our guides to brushing your dog’s teeth and other ways to look after their dental health.

Dental disease is common in dogs, and can cause them a lot of pain. Keeping your dog’s teeth clean can not only help prevent disease but a range of other dental problems. 

Professional cleaning to address tartar build-up or gingivitis in cats can cost between £150 to £400. That price will vary depending on the vet you choose and the severity of the problem. 

How often a pet needs dental cleaning depends on the individual pet's mouth, and level of periodontal disease present. This should be discussed with your veterinarian at each annual visit. Getting a cleaning every 1 to 2 years is what many vets will recommend, though some pets may need it more frequently and some less. Brushing your pet’s teeth at home with a pet safe toothpaste and soft bristled toothbrush is the best thing you can do in between vet visits to promote good oral health.