An oral biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the mouth for examination under a microscope. It’s typically performed to diagnose various oral diseases, lesions, or suspicious growths that cannot be diagnosed through visual examination alone. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Preparation: Before the biopsy, your dentist or oral surgeon will review your medical history and perform a thorough examination of your mouth. They may use special tools such as a dental mirror, probe, or oral cancer screening device to identify any abnormal areas.
• Local Anesthesia: To minimize discomfort during the procedure, local anesthesia is often administered to numb the area where the biopsy will be performed. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, especially for more extensive biopsies or if the patient is particularly anxious.
• Biopsy Procedure: Once the area is numb, the dentist or oral surgeon will use a scalpel or biopsy punch to remove a small piece of tissue from the affected area. The size of the sample may vary depending on the location and nature of the lesion. In some cases, stitches may be placed to close the wound.
• Specimen Handling: The tissue sample is then placed in a container with a special solution to preserve it and prevent damage. It is labeled with the patient’s information and sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis.
• Pathological Examination: At the laboratory, a pathologist examines the tissue sample under a microscope to identify any abnormalities, such as inflammation, infection, precancerous changes, or cancerous cells. The results of the biopsy help in making an accurate diagnosis and determining the appropriate treatment plan.
• Post-Biopsy Care: After the biopsy, you may experience some discomfort or swelling in the area where the tissue was removed. Over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses can help alleviate these symptoms. It’s essential to follow any post-biopsy instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, including avoiding certain foods or activities that may irritate the biopsy site.
• Follow-Up: Once the biopsy results are available, your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss the findings with you and recommend further treatment, if necessary, based on the diagnosis. This may include additional procedures, such as excision of the lesion, monitoring, or referral to a specialist for further evaluation and management.
• Overall, an oral biopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool that helps healthcare providers accurately diagnose oral diseases and provide appropriate treatment to improve oral health and well being