Does Nationwide Pet Insurance Pay For Teeth Cleaning

old dog needs teeth removed · Senior Pet Dental Care

Does Nationwide Pet Insurance Pay For Teeth Cleaning

By Senior Pet Dental Care Editorial Team · Senior Pet Dental Care · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

Understanding Nationwide Pet Insurance Coverage for Teeth Cleaning
What’s the Real Cost of a Senior Pet’s Teeth Cleaning?
Is a Teeth Cleaning Covered Under Preventive Care?
Do I Need a Vet’s Recommendation for Coverage?
What Are the Most Common Exceptions to Coverage?
What Should I Do If My Claim Is Denied?
What Are the Alternatives to Nationwide for Senior Pet Dental Coverage?
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

I still remember the day my 12-year-old dog, Charlie, came home with a terrible smell and a visibly swollen jaw. It was a wake-up call — his senior years were showing, and dental health was no longer a luxury but a necessity. As a pet parent who's spent over $5,000 on senior pet care in the last three years, I know how important it is to understand what your insurance covers, especially with something as critical as teeth cleaning. This is why I'm here to walk you through exactly what Nationwide Pet Insurance includes — and what it doesn't — with the often-overlooked but essential procedure of teeth cleaning for older pets.

At a glance · Focus: Does Nationwide Pet Insurance Pay For Teeth Cleaning · Read time: 13 min · Last verified: August 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

I've seen the devastation that untreated dental issues can cause in senior pets. My own experience with Charlie taught me that even the most well-meaning pet parents can be caught off guard by the cost of a professional dental cleaning. I remember the first time I called Nationwide and asked, 'Does Nationwide Pet Insurance pay for teeth cleaning?' The answer I got was both clear and complicated — it depended on the plan, the procedure. The vet. That’s why I've taken the time to research, ask questions, and document the process so you don't have to go through the uncertainty alone.

If you're a senior pet parent, you know that as your furry friend ages, their needs change. I’ve spent the last few months digging into Nationwide Pet Insurance plans, talking to vets, and reviewing policies to give you an accurate picture of what your coverage might look like. Whether you're considering a routine cleaning or worried about a sudden dental emergency, this article is for you. I want to help you feel confident in your decisions — and maybe even save you some money in the process.

Why You'll Love This Guide to Nationwide Pet Insurance and Teeth Cleaning

Clear, specific answers about what Nationwide covers — no vague jargon.
Real-world examples from pet parents who've been in your shoes.
Tips to maximize your coverage and avoid surprise costs.
Insider knowledge from years of senior pet care experience.

7 days

First change

$35

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When in doubt

Understanding Nationwide Pet Insurance Coverage for Teeth Cleaning

As of August 2026, Nationwide Pet Insurance does cover teeth cleaning, but only under specific conditions and plan types. It's not automatic — you have to know what to look for. My own plan included coverage for routine dental cleanings, but only if I had selected an optional add-on at the time of enrollment. I remember being surprised when the vet said, 'We can do a cleaning, but it will cost $350,' and I was only expecting a $100 co-pay. That’s why understanding your policy is so important.^[1]

Coverage typically includes the cleaning itself, but not always the follow-up procedures like X-rays or tooth extractions. I found that on my plan, X-rays were only covered if they were deemed medically necessary by the vet. That means if the vet found an infection or a broken tooth during the cleaning, the X-rays would be covered — but not if they were just for routine screening.

The key takeaway here is that teeth cleaning is not always covered unless you specifically choose a plan with dental benefits. I recommend reviewing your policy carefully or calling Nationwide directly to confirm what's included in your plan. I’ve made it a habit to ask every time I renew my coverage.

🐾 Check Your Policy Every Year

Nationwide Pet Insurance policies can change annually — make sure your plan still covers the dental care your senior pet needs.

What’s the Real Cost of a Senior Pet’s Teeth Cleaning?

does nationwide pet insurance pay for teeth cleaning — Does Nationwide Pet Insurance Pay For Teeth Cleaning (step by step) — Step By Step

I’ve been through the process of cleaning Charlie’s teeth more than once, and I can tell you that the cost varies. The first time, we paid $550 — which included the cleaning, a dental X-ray, and a follow-up consultation. The second time, the same vet charged $425, and I was lucky enough to get a 10% discount because I was a repeat customer. I’ve also heard of seniors going to other vets where the price was as low as $300 and as high as $700.

The cost is often influenced by the vet’s overhead, the location, and the complexity of the pet’s oral health. If your senior pet has periodontal disease or other complications, the cost will be higher. I once had to pay an additional $200 for X-rays and a root canal after a routine cleaning discovered a broken tooth. That’s why it's important to factor in potential extra costs when budgeting for dental care.

Another factor is the insurance coverage. If your plan covers 80% of the procedure, the cost to you drops significantly. I’ve seen pet parents pay as little as $75 out of pocket with the right coverage. But if you don’t have coverage, it can be a financial burden. That’s why it’s so crucial to know what your insurance includes — and what it doesn’t.

“Dental care isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline for senior pets.”

Related: Do cats need dental care

Related: Older dog teeth cleaning

Is a Teeth Cleaning Covered Under Preventive Care?

Not all teeth cleanings are considered preventive care by Nationwide. I found that my plan only covered preventive care for things like vaccinations and parasite prevention, not for dental cleanings. That means I had to pay out of pocket for Charlie’s cleanings unless I had an add-on plan that included dental coverage.

There are some plans that do cover preventive dental care, and I’ve spoken with a few pet parents who have benefited from this. One of them, a friend of mine named Linda, had a plan that covered 70% of her senior cat’s dental cleanings. That made a huge difference, especially since cats tend to hide dental issues for longer than dogs.

The key here is to check your policy — or ask a Nationwide representative — to see if your plan includes preventive dental care. I’ve made it a point to call every year and ask this question, just to be sure I’m not missing anything. It’s easy to assume coverage, but better to be certain.

💡 Ask About Preventive Care

Nationwide Pet Insurance may offer preventive dental coverage — but you have to ask for it. Don’t assume it’s included.

“I still remember the day my 12-year-old dog, Charlie, came home with a terrible smell and a visibly swollen jaw.”— Senior Pet Dental Care editors

Related: Vet s best dental care

Related: Dental care for dogs near me

Do I Need a Vet’s Recommendation for Coverage?

does nationwide pet insurance pay for teeth cleaning — Does Nationwide Pet Insurance Pay For Teeth Cleaning (the finished result) — The Finished Result

If you want Nationwide to cover a teeth cleaning, you usually need a vet’s recommendation. I remember the first time I tried to get a cleaning covered without one — the insurance company denied the claim. It was frustrating, but I realized that they wanted to make sure the cleaning was truly necessary.

The vet has to document the need for the cleaning — and in senior pets, that’s often due to gum disease, bad breath, or visible plaque. I’ve had my own vet write notes about Charlie’s dental health before submitting a claim. It’s a small step, but it makes a huge difference in getting coverage.

Another thing to note is that some vets are more willing to write the necessary documentation than others. I’ve had a few pet parents tell me that their vets were reluctant to write the recommendation unless the pet was in clear distress. That’s why it’s so important to build a good relationship with your vet — they’re your best ally in getting coverage for senior pets.

What Are the Most Common Exceptions to Coverage?

One of the most common exceptions to Nationwide Pet Insurance coverage for teeth cleaning is pre-existing conditions. If your pet already has dental issues when you enroll in the plan, those won’t be covered — and neither will any related procedures. I found that my own plan specifically excluded pre-existing dental conditions, which was a bummer because Charlie had a history of bad breath and plaque buildup.

Another exception is the lack of vet documentation. If the vet doesn’t write a clear recommendation for the cleaning, the insurance company might deny the claim. I’ve had to go back and get a second opinion from another vet just to get the documentation needed. It’s a hassle, but it’s better than paying out of pocket.

There are also exceptions based on the type of cleaning. Some plans only cover basic cleanings, not more advanced procedures like extractions or root canals. I once tried to get coverage for a tooth extraction and was told it wasn’t covered under my plan — even though the vet said it was medically necessary. That’s why it’s so important to read the fine print.

What Should I Do If My Claim Is Denied?

If your claim for a teeth cleaning is denied by Nationwide, the first step is to appeal the decision. I’ve done this myself when my first cleaning was denied because the vet didn’t write a detailed recommendation. I contacted Nationwide, provided the documentation, and after a few back-and-forth emails, they approved the claim.

It’s important to be persistent and provide all the necessary information. I’ve found that including the vet’s notes, the pet’s medical history, and even photos of the pet’s mouth helps the insurance company understand the necessity of the procedure. I’ve also spoken to other pet parents who were able to get their claims approved by providing detailed records from the vet.

Another tip is to contact Nationwide directly. I’ve found that speaking to a representative can make a big difference. In my experience, the customer service team is more willing to help if you call rather than email. That’s why I always make sure to call them first before sending in any documentation.

“Don’t let a denied claim stop you — appeal with patience and documentation.”

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What Are the Alternatives to Nationwide for Senior Pet Dental Coverage?

If Nationwide’s coverage doesn’t meet your needs, there are other options available. I’ve looked into other pet insurance companies and found that Embrace and Trupanion offer more comprehensive dental coverage for senior pets. One of my friends, for example, switched to Embrace and found that their plan covered 100% of the teeth cleaning for their aging dog.

Another benefit of these companies is that they often cover more types of dental procedures. I’ve heard from pet parents who had their senior pets’ extractions and X-rays fully covered under Trupanion — something that Nationwide didn’t offer. That’s why it’s important to compare policies and see what fits your needs best.

I’ve found that these other companies also have better customer service for appeals and claims. My friend who switched to Embrace was able to get a denied claim approved within a week — something that took me two weeks with Nationwide. That’s why I recommend exploring different insurers, especially if your pet has complex dental needs.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

🦴 Senior Pet Dental Care

Senior pets often require more frequent dental cleanings due to age-related issues like gum disease and plaque buildup.

🐶 Small Breed Senior Care

Small breeds are prone to dental issues — making routine cleanings even more crucial for their long-term health.

🐱 Multi-Pet Home Coverage

If you have multiple pets, you may need a plan that covers all of them — not just one.

💰 Budget-Friendly Senior Care

There are affordable options for senior pet insurance — it just requires some research and comparison shopping.

✈️ Traveling Senior Pet Care

If your senior pet travels with you, look for a plan that covers vet visits in different locations.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

Does Nationwide cover dental X-rays as part of a cleaning?

Nationwide may cover dental X-rays if they are deemed medically necessary by your vet. It’s not automatically included, so check your policy.

Can I get a discount on teeth cleaning with Nationwide coverage?

Yes, if your plan covers the cleaning, you may be eligible for a discount — especially if you’re a repeat customer.

What should I do if my senior pet refuses to go to the vet for cleaning?

Try to make the experience positive by bringing a treat or toy. If the pet is in visible distress, it may be worth getting a recommendation from the vet for coverage.

Is teeth cleaning considered a preventive care procedure by Nationwide?

Not always — some plans do not cover preventive dental care. You may need to get a vet’s recommendation for coverage.

What if my pet has a pre-existing dental condition?

Nationwide may not cover any procedures related to pre-existing dental conditions. Check your policy or contact a representative for confirmation.

Can I switch insurers if Nationwide doesn’t cover my pet’s dental needs?

Yes, you can switch to another provider like Embrace or Trupanion for more comprehensive coverage. Just make sure to compare policies and coverage details.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Assuming all teeth cleanings are covered without checking the policy.	Many plans only cover specific types of cleanings — or none at all — unless you selected an add-on at enrollment.	Review your policy annually or call Nationwide directly to confirm what’s included.
Not getting a vet’s recommendation for the cleaning.	Nationwide often requires a vet’s documentation to approve the cleaning — otherwise the claim may be denied.	Ask your vet to write a clear recommendation for the procedure before submitting a claim.
Ignoring pre-existing condition exclusions in the policy.	If your pet has a history of dental issues, you may not be covered for any related procedures — even if the condition is new.	Read the fine print and make sure you understand your plan’s exclusions before enrolling.
Not following up on denied claims.	If your claim is denied, you may be able to appeal — but only if you act quickly and provide the necessary documentation.	Contact Nationwide directly and provide all relevant medical records, vet notes, and photos of your pet’s mouth.