The Cost of Dog Tooth Removal in the UK - Pet Dental Care Budgeting

Dental care for pets, especially dogs, is a crucial aspect of their overall health but can often be overlooked until problems become too apparent to ignore.

For many pet owners, understanding the cost of dental treatment, specifically tooth extraction, is vital to prepare financially and mentally for the care their pet needs.

This comprehensive guide aims to unpack everything related to dog dental costs such as tooth extraction in the UK, helping you manage your furry friend's dental health efficiently.

Before diving into the costs, it's essential to recognise why dental care is so crucial.

Dental health in dogs is more than just about avoiding bad breath; it's about preventing more serious health issues such as periodontal disease, which can affect a dog's organs and overall health if left untreated.

Regular dental work and maintenance are required for all responsible pet owners.

This includes brushing your dog's teeth and other ideas such as using dental chews, which are beneficial in maintaining tooth and gum health between professional dental cleanings.

For more on the benefits and types of chews, read our guide to dental sticks for dogs.

You should also have a checkup of your pet's dental health by a qualified veterinarian every 12 months.

Top tip: Having your dog’s annual dental checkup noted on their records can help with any future claim on your pet insurance.

The cost of having a tooth removed varies widely across the UK.

This variation can be influenced by factors such as regional living costs, the specific needs of the procedure and whether additional treatments like dental X-rays or anaesthesia are required.

Single tooth extractions can cost £300-£400 or higher. This also depends on the area and X-rays or additional work required.

Below is a table of average costs for dog tooth extractions by region, providing a snapshot of what dog owners might expect.

This is based on data from multiple people, each with a unique procedure including the number of teeth extracted and scale/polishing etc.

Data from: WhatPrice?, 2022-2024

Having a pet insurance plan can help to alleviate the worry of expensive vet bills.

As mentioned, as long as you have your dog's dental health marked on their checkup or vet notes and they have no pre-existing conditions, you will be covered for most dental issues with a comprehensive pet insurance plan such as Waggel.

We include a £1,000 limit per policy year for dental treatment which is classed as a sub-limit.

1. Complexity of the procedure

Not all tooth extractions are created equal.

A simple extraction might cost less whilst removing many teeth or addressing gum disease could significantly increase the treatment costs.

2. Vet experience and equipment

The expertise of the vet and the equipment used can also affect the cost.

More experienced vets or those with specialised equipment may charge more but can also provide higher quality care.

3. Additional treatments

Often, a tooth extraction will require additional dental work such as dental scale, polish and anaesthesia, which can add to the overall cost.

1. Insurance policies

One of the best ways to manage vet bills is through pet insurance policies.

Many insurers such as us here at Waggel cover dental care as long as your dog's teeth are checked each year during a routine check-up and there are no pre-existing conditions present, although the extent of this cover varies per provider.

2. Homecare

Aftercare at home is critical. Ensure you have the right supplies for post-op care, such as soft foods and pain medication.

Learn more about managing pet dental health at Waggel's FAQ section.

3. Financial planning

Given the average cost of dental procedures, it's advisable to set aside funds for pet dental care.

For tips on managing these costs, explore options for pet insurance, setting up a pet care savings fund or using payment plans offered by some veterinary clinics.

If your dog shows signs of bad teeth or gum disease, such as difficulty eating, bad breath or visible tartar build-up, it's time to consult your vet.

Early intervention can prevent more severe health issues and potentially reduce the cost of dental treatment.

Tooth extraction for dogs is a significant but often necessary expense that can vastly improve your pet's quality of life.

By understanding the potential costs involved and how to prepare for them, you can ensure that your pet receives the best possible care without undue financial strain.

Remember, maintaining your dog’s dental health is an investment in their overall well-being.

For more detailed discussions on related topics such as dog tooth abscesses as well as other health issues such as cruciate ligament surgery costs in the UK explore the Waggel blog.