What finding would most likely signal skeletal issues in a dental examination?

Identifying skeletal issues during a dental examination often relies on observing changes in bone structure or density. Abnormal bone density can indicate a variety of conditions, including osteoporosis or other metabolic bone diseases, that may affect the jaw and surrounding structures. In a dental context, this might manifest as changes to the alveolar bone that could compromise periodontal health or affect the stability of teeth.

Other options, while relevant to dental health, do not directly point to skeletal issues. Missing third molars, for instance, may simply reflect genetic variation or previous extractions rather than skeletal abnormalities. The presence of unerupted canines may indicate developmental delays or crowding but doesn't clearly signify an underlying skeletal condition. Similarly, the fusion of teeth, or gemination, can be a developmental anomaly without direct implications for overall skeletal health. Therefore, the presence of abnormal bone density is the most telling sign of skeletal issues during a dental examination.