Screening for Cancer: Making UBC’s Extraoral and Intraoral Exam Videos

In my third year at UBC, I filmed two videos with my classmate demonstrating how to conduct extraoral and intraoral exams. These videos are now featured in the UBC dental hygiene and DMD programs to help students learn the steps of each process. I originally approached our oral medicine professor with this project in order to gain further understanding and competence in completing these assessments. Not only do I feel like I was able to achieve that goal, but I also feel that this project propelled me to confidently integrate these exams into my practice today.

I feel that extraoral exams in particular are not conducted regularly in dental practices. I think one of the main reasons for that is that clients may find it strange to have a head and neck exam from their dental professional, especially if it's never been done before. But I believe that the importance of this exam is worth having a conversation with our clients and educating them on the value of regular screening.

Extraoral exam

Intraoral exam

#oraldiseaseprevention #healthpromotion #clinicaltherapy