Biopsies & Oral Pathology
Evaluation of unusual areas of the mouth and jaws, with biopsy when needed to help establish a diagnosis and guide appropriate care.
When should an area of the mouth be evaluated?
Changes in the mouth are common and many are not serious. However, an area that is unusual, persistent, changing, or unexplained may need further evaluation. Depending on the findings, a biopsy may be recommended to determine what the tissue represents.
A persistent ulcer or sore may need evaluation when it does not improve as expected.
New or unexplained swelling, a lump, or a change in the texture of the tissues may warrant further evaluation.
Persistent white, red, dark, or otherwise unusual areas may sometimes need closer examination or biopsy.
Cysts, lesions, or other unexpected findings within the jaws may be discovered on X-rays or other dental imaging.
What to expect during your evaluation.
Your visit begins with understanding how the area was discovered, examining the mouth and surrounding structures, and reviewing any relevant imaging or previous treatment.
Understand the concern
We review your health history and discuss when the area was first noticed, whether it has changed, and any symptoms you have experienced.
Examine the area
Dr. Siew evaluates the area and surrounding tissues for features that may help determine the appropriate next step.
Review imaging when needed
X-rays or three-dimensional imaging may be reviewed when the area involves the teeth, bone, or other nearby structures.
Determine the next step
Depending on the findings, we may recommend observation, additional evaluation, biopsy, or another appropriate course of care.
Anesthesia options for your comfort and safety.
The appropriate option depends on your procedure, health history, preferences, and other clinical considerations.
Local anesthesia
Local anesthetic numbs the surgical area while you remain awake during the procedure.
IV sedation
IV sedation can help reduce anxiety and awareness and improve comfort during your procedure. The appropriate level of sedation is individualized for each patient.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia may be considered for selected patients and procedures when clinically appropriate.
How a biopsy helps establish a diagnosis.
When a biopsy is recommended, a small amount of tissue—or sometimes the entire area—is removed and examined by a pathologist. The results help determine whether any additional treatment or follow-up is needed.
Obtain a tissue sample
A portion or all of the abnormal tissue is carefully removed, depending on its size, location, and the reason for the biopsy.
Send the tissue for examination
The specimen is sent to a pathology laboratory, where it is examined under a microscope to help determine the diagnosis.
Review the diagnosis
Once the pathology report is available, we review the results and explain what they mean for your care.
Plan the next step
Depending on the diagnosis, no further treatment may be needed, or we may recommend additional treatment, monitoring, or referral to another specialist.
What to expect after an oral biopsy.
Recovery depends on the location and size of the biopsy and the amount of tissue removed. We will provide postoperative instructions specific to your procedure.
Soreness & swelling
Some soreness and swelling can occur after a biopsy and generally improve as the area heals.
Diet
Choose foods that are comfortable to eat and avoid biting or chewing directly on the surgical area while it heals.
Caring for the biopsy site
Keep the area clean and follow the instructions provided for brushing, rinsing, and caring for any stitches.
Pathology results
The tissue is sent for examination after the biopsy. We will review the pathology results with you and discuss whether any additional treatment or follow-up is recommended.
Common questions about biopsies.
Does needing a biopsy mean I have cancer?
No. Many changes in the mouth and jaws are not cancerous. A biopsy is a way to examine tissue under a microscope and establish a diagnosis when an area cannot be identified with enough certainty from the examination or imaging alone.
Will the entire area be removed during the biopsy?
It depends. A small area may sometimes be removed completely, while a larger or more complex area may require only a small sample for diagnosis. The approach depends on the size, location, appearance, and suspected cause of the area.
Who examines the biopsy?
The tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory, where a pathologist examines the specimen under a microscope and provides a diagnosis in a pathology report.
How long will it take to get my biopsy results?
Results are not usually available immediately. The time needed depends on the specimen and whether additional testing is required. We will let you know what to expect and review the pathology results with you when they are available.
What happens if the biopsy shows something abnormal?
The next step depends on the diagnosis. Some conditions need only observation, while others may require additional treatment, follow-up, or evaluation by another specialist. We will explain the results and help coordinate the appropriate next steps.
What if the biopsy does not give a clear diagnosis?
Occasionally, additional evaluation may be needed. Depending on the findings, this could include further testing, another tissue sample, additional imaging, or referral to another specialist.
Will I need stitches after a biopsy?
Sometimes. Whether stitches are needed depends on the location and size of the biopsy and how the tissue is removed. We will explain how to care for the area afterward.
Will I be asleep for a biopsy?
Not necessarily. Many biopsies can be performed with local anesthesia. IV sedation or general anesthesia may be considered depending on the location and extent of the procedure, your health history, preferences, and other clinical considerations.
Understanding the risks of a biopsy procedure.
Oral biopsy is generally a minor surgical procedure, but all surgery involves potential risks. These vary depending on the size and location of the area, the amount of tissue removed, your health history, and nearby structures.
Potential complications can include pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, delayed healing, scarring, or temporary changes in sensation. Depending on the location of the biopsy, nearby teeth, nerves, salivary structures, or other tissues may also be relevant.
Your individual findings, biopsy plan, alternatives, and potential risks will be reviewed with you before the procedure so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Have a concerning area in your mouth or jaw?
Contact our team to request an evaluation and determine whether observation, biopsy, or additional treatment may be appropriate.