Screening for Oral Cancer and head and neck Cancer is done at every cleaning and exam appointment, generally at six month intervals. The screening is done to detect early signs of Cancer. During the screening process, we will be looking for any abnormal tissue areas and/or swollen Lymph Nodes. Most times when something out of the ordinary is found, there is a reasonable explanation. When a lesion is noted, photos may be taken and emailed to the oral surgeon and pathology department at UNC School of dentistry for interpretation.