Soft and Hard Tissue Biopsy of Oral Cavity

An oral biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small piece of tissue from the mouth, either soft tissue or hard tissue like bone, is removed and sent to a laboratory for testing. The biopsy helps determine the presence of diseases such as oral cancer, precancerous lesions, or other oral conditions. At Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa, we perform oral biopsies to provide accurate diagnoses for our patients.

An oral biopsy is necessary to diagnose conditions that cause symptoms such as persistent mouth sores, lumps, thickened tissue, or other abnormalities in the mouth. This procedure is essential for detecting oral cancer or identifying other diseases in the early stages, allowing for timely treatment and management.

• Soft Tissue Biopsies: These involve removing tissue from the gums, cheeks, tongue, or palate. This type of biopsy is common for detecting soft tissue lesions or abnormalities.
• Hard Tissue Biopsies: These involve taking a sample from the bone structures in the oral cavity, such as the jawbone. This is often used for detecting conditions affecting the bone.

Typically, no special preparation is required for an oral biopsy. However, if sedation will be used during the procedure, you may be instructed to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand. Be sure to inform your Tulsa oral surgeon about any medications or allergies you have before the procedure.

During an oral biopsy, most patients feel little to no discomfort since the area is numbed with local anesthesia. If a larger tissue sample is needed or if you're feeling anxious, sedation may be offered to ensure a comfortable experience.

After administering local anesthesia, the oral surgeon removes a small sample of tissue using a scalpel, laser, or needle biopsy. Depending on the size of the tissue removed, sutures may be used to close the wound. The sample is then preserved and sent to a lab for analysis.

An oral biopsy procedure typically takes only a few minutes. However, including preparation and post-procedure care, the entire visit may last about an hour at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa.

Following an oral biopsy, you may experience mild bleeding, soreness, and potentially some swelling or bruising. These symptoms are usually temporary and subside within a few days. Your oral surgeon will provide aftercare instructions to help manage any discomfort.

To care for the biopsy site:

• Avoid irritating the area.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
• Follow your dentist's instructions regarding eating, drinking, and taking any prescribed medications.

If sedation is used during the biopsy, you'll need someone to drive you home. If only local anesthesia is used, you can typically drive yourself after the procedure.

Results from an oral biopsy usually take a few days to a week to come back from the lab. Once the results are available, your oral surgeon in Tulsa will discuss the findings with you and recommend any necessary treatments.

While generally safe, an oral biopsy carries some risks, such as infection, prolonged bleeding, or an allergic reaction to anesthesia. However, complications are rare, especially when performed by an experienced oral surgeon like those at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa.

The cost of an oral biopsy varies depending on the type of biopsy and the associated laboratory fees. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of biopsies, but coverage may vary based on the diagnosis and your specific plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for details on your coverage.

If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection (such as fever or increased swelling) after your biopsy, contact Elite Oral Surgery of Tulsa immediately for further evaluation and care.