During an oral cancer screening exam, your periodontist looks over the inside of your mouth to check for red or white patches or mouth sores. Using gloved hands, the periodontist also feels the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or other abnormalities.

On average, the ADA recommends that patients visit their dentist and or periodontist perform an oral cancer screening annually. Typically the visual exam is performed at every routine dental visit by your regular dental hygienist.