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Dental Biopsy
What is a biopsy?
A biopsy is a simple surgery that removes a sample of gum tissue, tooth, or jaw
from the body for a pathologist to examine under a microscope, to determine if
it is cancerous. The goal is to find the source of an abnormality or lesion,
which may be caused by illness or injury. The lesion may be in the area of soft
tissue or bone that looks abnormal. This can be a lump or a patch of skin that
has a different color or texture.
There are two types of biopsies: incisional and excisional. An incisional biopsy
removes a piece of tissue from the lesion for a sample, while an excisional biopsy
removes the entire lesion altogether.
What are biopsies used for?
Biopsies are used for removing lesions altogether or partially so that they can be
examined in the laboratory. A biopsy is usually done when your dentist thinks that
a lesion could be cancerous. Biopsies are also performed to diagnose other
non-cancerous cases.
How do you prepare for a biopsy?
Before an oral biopsy, you will have to use an antibacterial rinse in order to
prevent any infections. Your surgeon will also stain your mouth in order to
highlight the lesion. If a bone biopsy is needed then you will need x-rays or
computed tomography scans prior to the surgery. For adults, oral biopsies are
done at the office using local anesthesia when the patient is
fully conscious.
What are the follow-up procedures for a biopsy?
You could take over-the-counter pain relievers if you experience discomfort in your
mouth. You should eat soft foods, rinse with warm saltwater, and use antibacterial
rinses for the first few days after the surgery. You may also need to take antibiotics.
You should return to your dentist after two weeks in order to get the results of the
biopsy and make sure that you are healing properly.
What are the risks of a biopsy?
Certain types of oral surgery will cause bleeding for several days. If you have
excessive bleeding from a biopsy, you must get in touch with your oral surgeon. There
is a small chance that the area can get infected after the surgery. This is because there
are so many bacteria in the mouth. Your surgeon will recommend that you use antibacterial
rinses, antibiotics, or possibly both in order to minimize the risk of
infection.
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