Findings may include Darkened teeth: Due to extrinsic stains and less translucent enamel, which occur with aging Fissures in the mouth and tongue and a tongue that sticks to the buccal mucosa: Due to xerostomia Erythematous, edematous gingiva that bleeds easily: Usually indicating a gingival or periodontal disorder Bad breath: Possibly indicating oral disorders (eg, caries, periodontitis), another infection (eg, sinus), or sometimes a pulmonary disorder The dorsal and ventral surfaces of the tongue are examined.