A complete dental exam includes an examination of not only your teeth, but also other parts of your oral cavity. The teeth’s surfaces are checked for decay, using special dental instruments, and existing restorations (fillings, crowns, veneers ) are checked for their condition. The dentist examines your gums and the bones around your teeth for any signs of gum disease. In addition, he checks for signs of cancer in your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums. Finally, diagnostic x-rays are taken to find decay, tumours, cysts, bone loss and to examine tooth positions.