Everything You Need to Know About Oral Biopsies

Sometimes, it’s not just tooth decay or gum disease we encounter during routine or clinical exams. In rare cases, some patients have suspicious sores, patches, and swellings that need further scrutiny. An oral biopsy takes a small sample of your tissue for further testing, typically to determine if it’s cancerous or benign. If you need an oral biopsy in Greensboro, North Carolina, call Travis A Bell DDS PLLC for high-quality services you can trust.

Why do I need an oral biopsy?

An oral biopsy is a procedure where your doctor removes a small tissue sample from your mouth for laboratory testing. It’s often done to investigate unusual lesions, persistent sores, or suspicious areas that don’t heal on their own.

Several types of oral biopsies include:

  • Incisional biopsy: This is the most common biopsy. It involves removing a small portion of your suspicious tissue and examining it under the microscope. Our dentist works closely with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Laboratory to analyze the results.
  • Excisional biopsy: The doctor removes the entire lesion. Typically, this is preferred if the lesion is tiny and easy to reach in the mouth. Besides being a diagnostic tool, excisional biopsy prevents the irregularity from spreading further.

There are several ways the dentist can obtain the sample tissue. The choice depends on the kind of growth and its location. Some biopsies require using a special needle to collect tissue for closer examination. Another option available for sample collection is a brush biopsy. In this case, a brush is rubbed hard on the legion to collect tissue samples. Other tissue removal options include using a laser or punch.

What can I expect during a biopsy?

You don’t need any preparation for a biopsy. However, if you are on medication, notify your doctor. Certain medications, like blood thinners, can affect the biopsy outcome, so you may need professional guidance on their usage before the procedure.

Your dentist will examine the area of concern and review your medical history. X-rays or scans may be used to get a clearer picture of the suspicious area. Before the procedure, the doctor will sterilize the area and then administer local anesthesia. This way, you won’t feel pain—just pressure or slight discomfort. Next, the doctor removes a small piece of tissue using a scalpel, laser, or punch tool. The entire process usually takes just 15–30 minutes. The tissue sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis.

It usually takes a weeks to receive results. The findings will determine whether the area is benign (non-cancerous) or precancerous. Further treatment will depend on the results.

What can I expect when recovering from a biopsy?

After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild swelling, soreness, or light bleeding for a day or two. Our team will give clear aftercare instructions to support a smooth and comfortable recovery. We’ll guide you on managing pain, maintaining good oral hygiene, and choosing the right foods to promote healing. While complications are rare, there is a small risk of infection. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help prevent any issues and ensure an event-free recovery.

Do you need an oral biopsy in Greensboro, North Carolina?

If you’ve been told you need an oral biopsy, know that it’s a safe, straightforward procedure that protects your oral and overall health. Looking for a trusted dental office that can perform an oral biopsy? Call (336) 274-8386 and schedule an appointment with Travis A Bell, DDS PLLC.