There are clear indications that oral health status has a profound effect on the animal's general health.  Periodontal disease may cause bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream with potentially deleterious effects on internal organs.  Conversely, poor systemic health may manifest in the oral cavity in various ways and may also exacerbate periodontal disease. Your pet's dental examination is therefore not limited to the oral cavity but always includes a general physical examination.  Laboratory examinations, to evaluate systemic disease concerns, are also commonly performed.  Some dogs and cats suffer from chronic oral infection or stomatitis, a poorly understood condition which is frustratingly difficult to treat.