gingivitis is bleeding on probing, chewing, or brushing. Signs and symptoms of oral disease The most common signs of oral disease include: Halitosis Broken or discoloured teeth Changes in eating behaviour Rubbing or pawing at the face Ptyalism Bleeding from the mouth Inability or unwillingness to open or close the mouth Change in temperament Morbidity Weight loss Diagnosis Most pet owners are not aware that their pet has an oral problem, so an examination of the oral cavity should form part of every physical examination given by the veterinarian. The current Canine Preventive Healthcare Guidelines and Feline Preventive Healthcare Guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and AVMA both include dental care as part of the assessment during annual veterinary examinations. Oral examination in a conscious animal can only give limited information and a definitive oral examination can only be performed under general anesthesia. Examinations are supposed to occur at least once a year to identify any problems and ensure optimal oral health. Examining the whole animal, even when the primary complaint is the mouth, is routine. Some dental diseases may be the result of a systemic problem and some may result in systemic complications, including kidney, liver, and heart muscle changes. In all cases, dental procedures require a general anesthetic, so it is important to establish the cardiovascular and respiratory status and the physiological values of the patient to avoid risks or complications. Radiography Radiographs (x-rays) may be needed to evaluate the health of the jaw and the tooth roots below the gum line. Most dental disease occurs below the gum line and is not visible. Some of the indications for dental radiography include: Assessment of bone levels and type of bone loss caused by periodontal disease. Assessment of endodontic disease including apical pathology, pulp exposures, and draining fistulae. Pathology of the oral soft and hard tissues, including tumors and fractures. Evaluation of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Crown/root pathology including tooth resorptive lesions, crown or root fractures, extra roots, or dilacerated roots. Comparison of pre/post tooth extraction sites. Root canal therapy. Oligodontia (absence of most teeth) or extra teeth. Assessment of tooth development and chronological dental age of the animal. Oral abnormalities, anomalies, and defects Abnormal, anomalous, or defective pet teeth are sometimes encountered in veterinary practice. One or several teeth may be involved and the concern may be for esthetics, function, patient comfort, or a combination of these