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Advancements in diagnostic and treatment modalities for oral and maxillofacial surgery have allowed veterinarians to offer clients a range of alternatives for their pets. Categories of oral and maxillofacial surgery reviewed in this article include jaw fracture management, management of palatal/oronasal defects, recognition and treatment of oral masses, and management of several miscellaneous pathologic conditions. Miscellaneous oral lesions discussed in this article include odontogenic cysts, osteonecrosis and osteomyelitis, and lesions of the tongue and lips., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Oral trauma remains a common presentation in a small animal practice. Most fractures are the result of vehicular accidents. Among other causes are falls, kicks, gunshots wounds, and encounters with various hard objects ranging from baseball bats and golf clubs to horse hooves and car doors. Next in popularity are dog fights, especially when a large dog and a small dog are involved, and fights with other animals. With cats, falls from various heights are responsible for a large percentage of presentations.

Maxillofacial surgery in dogs includes the management of jaw fractures various palatal surgical procedures, the management of oral tumors, and the surgical management of miscellaneous maxillofacial problems. Miscellaneous maxillofacial problems that may require surgical intervention include dentigenous cysts, bone sequestra or osteomyelitis, and an inability to open or close the month. Careful perioperative planning of maxillofacial surgical procedures will help ensure a successful outcome.

This article describes a 5-year study of 73 cats that were surgically treated for mandibular fractures or combinations of fractures with luxation of the temporomandibular joint. Surgical technique and results are described in detail.

Some of the clinical problems most frequently seen in veterinary dentistry and their surgical solutions are discussed. Extraction of teeth, surgical repositioning of teeth, tooth transplant, oral abscesses of tooth origin, impaction of teeth, repair of maxillary canine oronasal fistula, and simple techniques for oral wiring are among the issues considered.