Veterinary Dental Referral Service

Cedric Tutt BVSc (hons), MMedVet (Med) (Bov), MRCVS

The Oral Examination

Examination of the mouth and dentition follows the clinical examination where swelling and asymmetry of the face is noted.

The oral soft tissues are examined for colour, swelling and ulceration, while the teeth are examined for colour, shape, position and fractures.

Under general anaesthesia the back part of the mouth is examined along with the tonsils. Each tooth and its supporting tissues are then examined in turn. A periodontal probe (blunt ended) is used to evaluate the gingival sulcus (a shallow gingival collar surrounding each tooth) and determine the extent of gingivitis and periodontal disease. This instrument is graduated to enable depth measurements and it is also used to measure the extent of gum recession. A dental explorer (sharp pointed) is used to examine defects in the tooth surface and also check for calculus accumulation below the level of the gum.

During the examination, clinical findings are “charted”. All findings are noted adjacent to each tooth on the chart, which is helpful in treatment planning. This remains as the dental record of the patient.

Lifting dog's lip
Open cat's mouth showing a sore throat	Opening Dog's mouth

Tooth Decay (Caries)

Some dogs suffer with caries which is tooth decay. Food on the tooth surface ferments forming acid that destroys the enamel exposing dentine that becomes infected.

Caries in left lower molar

Caries right upper molars