A dental biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the mouth for examination under a microscope. This type of biopsy is performed to diagnose the presence of abnormal or cancerous cells in the mouth, and to determine the type of lesion or growth present.
A dental biopsy is typically performed in the dental office using local anaesthesia. The dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area around the biopsy site, and then remove a small sample of tissue using a scalpel, a punch biopsy instrument, or a brush. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for examination by a pathologist.
There are several types of dental biopsies, including incisional biopsy (in which only a portion of the lesion is removed), excisional biopsy (in which the entire lesion is removed), and needle biopsy (in which a small sample of tissue is removed using a needle).
The type of biopsy performed will depend on the size, location, and appearance of the lesion, as well as the patient’s medical history and other factors.
Dental biopsies are an important diagnostic tool in the field of dentistry, and they can help to determine the presence of abnormal or cancerous cells in the mouth and to develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for the individual patient. If you have any concerns about a lesion or growth in your mouth, it is important to seek the guidance of a dental professional as soon as possible.