What is the Purpose of an Oral Biopsy?

“Oral biopsy” is a medical term that can seem scary or intimidating for those who don’t know what it entails. An oral biopsy is a simple procedure that can be used to identify a variety of problems in the mouth.

What exactly is the purpose of an oral biopsy, and how is it performed? Find out in this article.

Oral biopsy: a diagnostic tool for a variety of pathologies

When you visit the dentist, they will usually take x-rays and examine your teeth. They will also take a close look at the mucous membranes of your mouth (soft tissues such as the gums, palate, inner cheeks, tongue, etc.) to check for any abnormalities that could be early warning signs of more serious pathologies.

If your dentist finds an abnormality, they will most likely send you to an oral and maxillofacial surgery specialist for a biopsy. The biopsy involves taking a sample of the abnormal tissue and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. The analysis will determine whether the mass or lesion is in fact an oral pathology that needs to be removed.

Serious problems like oral cancer can be detected with a biopsy.

Oral biopsy procedure

Do you have a biopsy scheduled with a maxillofacial surgeon? Here is what to expect during and after the procedure.

Tissue sample collection

The surgeon will select the appropriate technique for the affected area (punch, incisional or fine-needle aspiration). Local anaesthetic is used on the area in question to make sure that the patient feels no pain during the procedure.

Typically, the procedure only takes a few minutes. Despite that, you will still need to take good care of your mouth in the days after the procedure by following the postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon.

Laboratory analysis

The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis. The analysis will determine whether or not the abnormal tissue is a problem.

Follow-up and results

Once the analysis is complete, a follow-up appointment will be made to discuss the results with the patient and determine the best way to treat the problem if necessary.

First-rate oral and maxillofacial surgery services at Clinique MFML

Oral biopsy is a key method for diagnosing oral pathologies. With this short, simple procedure, diseases can be identified and treated before they become too serious.

Are you looking for a first-rate oral and maxillofacial clinic in Montreal? Make an appointment at Clinique MFML today!