Expert opinion - should oral cancer be detected in a dental exam?

Often: Dentists routinely look at the entire oral structures (besides teeth) and may find oral cancer. If suspicious areas are discovered, the dentist may perform a biopsy or refer the patient to a specialist (oral surgeon or otolaryngologist) for evaluation and treatment.

Part of Comp Exam: Most dental offices routinely screen patients for oral cancer as part of the comprehensive examination process. Many offices employ the use of special lights and scopes to see any changes at the cellular level, and not just via normal light. Most times dentists will also discuss pre-cancerous changes they see, to help patients take preventive action to avoid a possible DX of cancer.