Screening is a cost-effective procedure. Screening should be part of a sequence that also includes examinations and treatment. Screening differs from a dental examination in that screening is subjective in nature and reveals only obvious abnormalities. The screener does not make dental diagnoses. Using nondental personnel or volunteers to do the screening permits the dentist to spend more time on dental care. The proper training of screeners is essential to the success of a dental screening program. Suggestions are given for selecting screeners as well as for conducting an inhouse training program conducted by the corrections dentist. Guidelines are also given for a screening sequence for hard and soft tissue. Several classification systems useful in setting priorities for dental examinations are also provided. 15 references.