ORAL BIOPSIES
During a dental exam, your dentist will examine your mouth for any abnormalities. If an abnormality, such as a lesion or other type of irregularity is found in your mouth, then your dentist may be required to perform an oral biopsy. An oral biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a small piece of tissue from the area and will be examined by a pathologist to determine the cause of the abnormality and whether there is any concern pertaining to it. The lesion may be found in the soft tissue of the mouth or bone and the dental surgeon may need to remove the sample from your gum, tooth, or jaw.
An oral biopsy is a diagnostic tool, which tests a sample of the abnormal tissue and helps identify the exact cause of the problem. If the tissue is cancerous, the biopsy will be able to determine the extent and stage of the cancer and if the source is from the mouth or another part of the body. An oral biopsy is crucial in determining whether cells found in the mouth are cancerous. When done timely, it can help our team determine subsequent treatment. Biopsies save lives and it is important to have one performed if you have any abnormal lesions in your mouth. If you have any questions regarding an oral biopsy, contact our team to schedule a consultation for an oral biopsy in Los Angeles.
Types of Biopsies
Generally, there are two types of biopsies that a dentist can perform. The first type is an incisional biopsy, which involves the dentist to remove a small piece of tissue from the lesion, along with a healthy piece of tissue or tooth that surrounds the lesion. The abnormal tissue and the healthy tissue are then compared.
The second type of biopsy is known as an excisional biopsy, which involves the dental surgeon to remove the entire lesion, as opposed to just a small portion of it. An excisional biopsy is generally performed on any lesions or growths that are generally small and are located in areas of the mouth that are easier to access. In addition, an excisional biopsy can help prevent the growth from expanding any further.
There are many different ways in which the tissue may be removed as a sample. It is dependent on a number of factors, including the kind of growth, the location of the growth, among other factors. While some biopsies involve a needle to remove the sample, other samples may need to be removed with a blade. Additionally, some samples may be removed with a brush, which is noninvasive and involves the brush to be rubbed onto the lesion to collect the samples.
Whatever the case may be, our team at Salo & Salo Dental can provide you with the care that you need to determine the cause of the abnormality. If you have any questions regarding an oral biopsy in Beverly Hills, feel free to contact our team.
How to Prepare For Oral Biopsy
Preparing for an oral biopsy is not very complicated. If a biopsy must be performed on a bone region, then your dentist will likely suggest an X-ray or CT (computed tomography) scan. Your dentist will then ask you not to eat anything a few hours prior to your biopsy. Once you arrive at our office, an antibacterial rinse will be done. Generally, oral biopsies are performed under local anesthesia, which means that you are completely awake throughout the procedure. However, in some cases, general anesthesia may be necessary if the lesion is located in an area that may be difficult to reach.
Recovery After an Oral Biopsy
After your biopsy has been completed, your gums will be numb due to the anesthesia. The numbness will wear off after a few hours and you will likely be able to return to your normal diet. However, your dentist will likely recommend soft foods for the next couple of days after the procedure. Soreness for the next couple of days is normal. However, if you experience soreness and pain, bleeding, or abnormal swelling, then it is imperative to contact your dentist immediately.
With an oral biopsy, there is a small risk of infection; however, it is extremely rare. Whatever the case may be, an oral biopsy is extremely valuable to your overall health if it is necessary and the benefits certainly outweigh the risks. This is because it can help your dentist catch cancer cells in a timely manner if present and can be treated effectively. When an oral biopsy is done in a timely manner, it can certainly save patients’ lives.
Contact Us at Salo & Salo
At Salo & Salo Dental, our highly experienced team can provide you with the care that you need to determine a diagnosis for any abnormal lesions found in your mouth. If you are in need of a trusted team that you can rely on for excellent diagnosis, prevention, and care, contact us today.
Interested in Learning More about Cosmetic Dentistry in Beverly Hills
If you are seeking the best cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles, then our team at Salo & Salo Dental can help you achieve your goals. With extensive experience, we take great pride in being able to provide the best results possible for our patients. When considering cosmetic dentistry, it is imperative to choose a dental team that has shown proven, successful results. We are confident in the cosmetic dentistry services that we provide and are dedicated to creating custom-made designs that will fit the rest of your smile perfectly, ensuring optimal functionality and stunning results. To learn more about our cosmetic dentistry procedures and what may work for you, feel free to contact our friendly team to schedule a consultation with our dentist who specializes in the top cosmetic dentistry in West Hollywood.
