Hi Marsy - I'm so glad you found this site! Not all dentists are familiar with the proper way to do an Oral Exam. I saw the Dr. Oz show, too but it went pretty quickly so if you want to review the proper way to do an oral exam from the patient's point of view just go here: http://oralcancerfoundation.org/dental/how_do_you_know.html
There is also another explanation for the Dental Profession here:
http://oralcancerfoundation.org/dental/screening.htm
It really helps to be prepared so you can ask all the questions you need to know. Your health is very important and you have every right to get the kind of care you deserve. Let us know what happens.