What to Expect During an Oral Biopsy

Your mouth can reveal important information about your overall health. For example, when changes appear in the mouth, such as a sore, lump, or discoloration, they may require a closer look to understand what’s going on. While these signs don’t always point to something severe, our team often completes oral biopsies in Columbia, SC, to determine the best course of action. 

At Columbia Dental Health Center, our team of dentists provides exceptional dental services to help you keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright. 

Our dentists in Columbia, Dr. Cain, and Dr. Coleman, are experienced in identifying and managing different oral health concerns. If they notice an area in your mouth that looks unusual, they may recommend an oral biopsy as a precaution. 

What is an Oral Biopsy?

An oral biopsy is a medical procedure that involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the mouth for examination and analysis. This procedure is performed to diagnose various conditions affecting the teeth and gums, including oral cancer, tumors, lesions, or other disorders. By analyzing the tissue sample, our dentists can identify infections, unusual cell changes, or tumors.

Types of Oral Biopsies

The two primary types of oral biopsies are incisional and excisional biopsies.

Incisional Biopsy

Incisional biopsies involve the surgical removal of a portion of the lesion rather than the entire mass. This is particularly useful when dealing with larger lesions or when the complete removal of the tumor might affect your overall oral health.

Excisional Biopsy

Excisional biopsies involve the complete removal of the lesion, including the surrounding tissue and any underlying structures. These are recommended when lesions are small and accessible. Excisional biopsies can serve as a treatment, effectively removing the lesion during the procedure. 

Oral Biopsy Procedure

An oral biopsy procedure begins with a visual inspection of the mouth. If a lesion is suspected to be malignant, the dentist will recommend a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis. The type of biopsy performed can vary depending on the size, location, and characteristics of the lesion.

Before your biopsy, our dentists in Columbia numb the area with a local anesthetic so you feel only slight pressure during the procedure. Once the area is numbed, the dentist excises the affected tissue using sterile instruments. The dentist needs to handle the tissue sample carefully to prevent contamination and ensure the specimen’s integrity for laboratory analysis.

Risks or Side Effects of an Oral Biopsy

While oral biopsies can provide information for diagnosis and treatment, they are not without risks and side effects. Some of the risks include:

• Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience swelling and tenderness as part of the healing process. The intensity and duration of pain can vary depending on the extent of the biopsy, the patient’s pain threshold, and the area from which the tissue is taken.
• Infections: As with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility of introducing bacteria into the blood or surrounding tissues, which can lead to infections. Symptoms of an infection may include increased redness, swelling, and the formation of pus at the biopsy site.
• Excessive bleeding: The mouth contains many blood vessels, and the removal of tissue can result in hemorrhaging if not managed. While minor bleeding is expected and often controlled with local anesthetics, some patients may experience abnormal bleeding.

Who Should Consider Getting an Oral Biopsy?

An oral biopsy should be considered for individuals experiencing lesions, non-healing sores, abnormal growths, or discoloration in the mouth that persists for an extended period. Those with a history of tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or previous oral cancers are at heightened risk for oral cancer.

Patients who experience oral pain and difficulty in swallowing may also benefit from a biopsy to rule out severe underlying conditions. Regular dental checkups can identify these abnormal changes early.

Dental Care in Columbia, SC

At Columbia Dental Health Center, we offer top-quality dental care to ensure your oral health is maintained at every stage. Our dental team is dedicated to identifying oral health issues early and providing personalized solutions. When visiting for dental treatments, you can trust that your care is in the hands of experienced and compassionate professionals.

If you need an oral biopsy in Columbia, SC, to assist with oral cancer diagnosis, contact our dentists at Columbia Dental Health Center. They can detect oral disorders early and encourage timely intervention. Schedule an appointment today.