Understanding the Cost of Treating Epulis in Dogs
As devoted pet owners, we always want the best for our dogs — and that includes taking action when they are diagnosed with health issues. One such condition is epulis, a common benign tumor found in the mouths of dogs. Though typically non-cancerous, epulis can affect dental function, cause discomfort, and may grow larger if not addressed. A common question arises: how much does it cost to treat epulis in dogs?
What Is Epulis in Dogs?
Epulis is a type of oral tumor that arises from the periodontal ligament. There are three main types of epulis in dogs:
- Fibromatous Epulis – The most common and typically slow-growing.
- Ossifying Epulis – Contains bony tissue.
- Acanthomatous Epulis – More aggressive and may invade surrounding bone.
These growths can interfere with eating, lead to drooling, and cause irritation or oral bleeding, prompting the need for veterinary intervention.
Factors Influencing Treatment Costs
The cost of treating epulis in dogs depends on several key factors:
- Size and location of the tumor – Larger or hard-to-reach tumors may require more extensive surgery.
- The type of epulis – Acanthomatous epulis often requires more aggressive treatment with deeper surgical margins or specialized procedures.
- Surgical method – Costs vary based on whether basic excision, dental extraction, or advanced maxillofacial surgery is needed.
- Use of anesthesia – Anesthesia fees increase with surgical complexity and duration.
- Veterinary specialist vs. general practice – Specialists typically charge more due to expertise and advanced facilities.
- Geographic location – Veterinary costs differ widely between rural and urban areas.
Average Costs for Treating Epulis
- Routine excision by a general vet: $300–$600
- Surgery by a veterinary dental or surgical specialist: $800–$1,500
- Advanced procedures involving 3D imaging or bone resection: $1,500–$2,500
- Follow-up care and medications: $100–$300
Routine surgeries performed at a general veterinary clinic may cost under $500. However, if referral to a veterinary dental surgeon is required — especially for acanthomatous epulis — the price can exceed $1,000 due to advanced imaging (like X-rays or CT scans), guided surgical resection, and postoperative care.
Additional Veterinary Services That May Impact Cost
In addition to the surgery itself, your vet may recommend complementary diagnostics and procedures:
- Blood tests – $80–$150
- Dental X-rays or CT scan – $150–$500+
- Histopathology (biopsy of tumor) – $100–$200
- Pain relief and antibiotics – $40–$100
Is It Covered by Pet Insurance?
If you have pet insurance, some or all of the expenses related to epulis treatment may be covered. This depends on your coverage plan, whether the condition is considered pre-existing, and any caps on surgical reimbursements. Always consult your insurance provider before proceeding with expensive procedures.
Costs of Not Treating Epulis
While epulis tumors are typically benign, leaving them untreated can result in:
- Continued growth, affecting eating/drinking behavior
- Tooth displacement or loss
- Pain and infection
- Increased treatment complexity and cost later
Timely intervention is almost always more cost-effective than delaying care.
Ways to Manage and Reduce Costs
- Discuss all options with your vet — including staged treatment or local anesthesia options.
- Ask about payment plans — many clinics offer financing or work with veterinary credit programs.
- Check local veterinary schools — they may offer reduced-cost procedures performed by supervised students.
- Compare clinics — get second opinions for complex cases to evaluate cost and care options.
Final Thoughts
Epulis is a manageable condition, and with early treatment, most dogs recover fully and return to normal activities. While the thought of surgery — and the costs involved — can be daunting, quick action and informed choices can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life. If you suspect your dog may have oral growths, don’t delay scheduling an examination to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
