Earlier this year VPI Pet Insurance, the nation’s oldest and largest pet insurance provider, released some startling information about their dental claims. In 2007, VPI received claims totaling $3.8 million for dental procedures—up from $2.3 million in 2005—including 7,629 claims for the surgical treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. Only 6.8 percent of VPI’s policyholders have their pets’ teeth professionally cleaned, meaning these costs could have been prevented.

Dr. Carol McConnell, VPI vice president and chief veterinary medical officer said, “The conditions that we have seen increase are most often associated with pet owners inadvertently neglecting their pets’ teeth.” Why? Because tooth issues are less obvious than physical ailments, and pet owners don’t routinely monitor their pets’ dental health.

The American Veterinary Dental Society reports that 70 percent of cats and 80 percent of dogs show signs of oral and dental disease by the time they are 3 years old. The best way to prevent dental disease is to regularly brush your cat or dog’s teeth at home and schedule routine professional cleanings. According to VPI—which reimburses $100 for canine teeth cleaning—the average claim for the treatment is $292.