Diagnosis cost
£50–£150
Treatment cost
£150–£800
Ongoing cost
£20–£60 per month
Severity
Moderate
Treatable
Manageable
Species
Dogs
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs, affecting the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It begins with plaque build-up that hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation (gingivitis) and eventually infection that destroys the gum tissue and jawbone. Left untreated, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Small and toy breeds are especially prone because their teeth are crowded into smaller jaws, making plaque accumulation worse.
Symptoms to watch for
- Bad breath (halitosis) that doesn’t go away
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown tartar build-up on the teeth
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Loose or missing teeth
- Reduced appetite or reluctance to eat hard food
- Drooling more than usual
How is periodontal disease diagnosed?
| Test | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Consultation and oral examination | £35–£65 |
| Dental X-rays (under general anaesthetic) | £100–£250 |
| Blood test (pre-anaesthetic screening) | £80–£200 |
Treatment options and costs
Professional dental cleaning (scale and polish)
£150–£500Performed under general anaesthetic, this removes plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. Suitable for mild to moderate periodontal disease. Most dogs need a dental cleaning every 1–2 years to prevent progression.
Tooth extractions
£200–£800Severely affected teeth that are loose, infected, or causing pain need to be extracted. The cost depends on the number and type of teeth removed. Dogs adapt well to eating after extractions and are typically much more comfortable.
Ongoing home dental care
£20–£60 per monthDaily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste, dental chews, water additives, and prescription dental diets. Essential for slowing the return of periodontal disease after professional treatment.
Ongoing costs
Estimated ongoing management cost
£20–£60 per month
monthly
Breeds most at risk
| Breed | Risk level |
|---|---|
| Shih Tzu | High |
| Dachshund | High |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | High |
| Pug | High |
| Jack Russell Terrier | Moderate |
| French Bulldog | Moderate |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Moderate |
Does pet insurance cover periodontal disease?
Most pet insurance policies cover dental treatment that results from an accident or illness, including extractions for periodontal disease. However, many policies exclude routine dental cleaning (scale and polish) unless it’s directly treating diagnosed periodontal disease. Some insurers impose waiting periods for dental claims. Always check your policy wording carefully, as dental exclusions vary widely between providers.
