When Is a Biopsy Necessary?

An oral biopsy provides a quick and minimally invasive way to evaluate oral tissue, including growths or lesions that may require further diagnosis. This article explains exactly what to expect, so you can understand the procedure.

Many dental appointments include an oral exam, X-rays, and a professional teeth cleaning. But if your dentist uncovers a bump on your tongue, gums, or inner cheek, they may recommend an oral biopsy.

An oral biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that lets us collect a small tissue sample for further evaluation. It’s an effective way to identify or rule out cancer and other potentially serious medical issues.

At Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants, Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith use oral biopsies to help guide treatment. This article outlines the different types of oral biopsy, discusses when this procedure is recommended, and explains what to expect.

Understanding the different types of oral biopsy

There are several types of oral biopsy. Depending on the size, location, and type of the growth, we may recommend:

Exfoliative cytology

This is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves collecting a small sample of cells from the surface of an abnormal area and then sending it to a nearby lab for analysis.

Incisional biopsy

This procedure involves removing a small sample of the growth, along with some healthy surrounding tissue.

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy

In some cases, removing a piece of tissue via incisional biopsy isn’t possible. When that happens, an FNA biopsy is often used instead. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

When is an oral biopsy recommended?

Many oral growths heal on their own and don’t cause problems. However, any lesion that lasts more than 14 days, continues growing, or occurs alongside discomfort should be evaluated.

We may recommend an oral biopsy if we identify:

A non-healing sore or ulcer, or red or white patches
An unusual lump or growth anywhere on the inside of your mouth
Textural changes, such as hard, thickened, or rough skin

You may also benefit from an oral biopsy if you have a growth that affects your ability to bite, chew, or speak.

Even though oral cancer is relatively rare, ruling it out is important. Prompt diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and lower the risk of complications.

What to expect during an oral biopsy

An oral biopsy only takes 15 minutes or less.

If we determine you’re a candidate for a biopsy, don’t worry about discomfort. We use a local anesthetic.

Following your procedure, you can return to most normal activities. We will give you specific instructions based on the details of your procedure.

Do you need an oral biopsy?

Growths on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks usually aren’t something to worry about, but an oral biopsy can provide peace of mind.

Contact us today to make an appointment. Call our Gulfport, Mississippi, office at (228) 868-9615 or request an appointment on this website.