Oral Pathology/Biopsies
Oral pathology is the branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing diseases of the mouth, jaws, and related structures. When suspicious lesions, growths, or tissue changes are detected, a biopsy—a small surgical procedure to remove a tissue sample—allows microscopic examination to determine if the tissue is benign, precancerous, or malignant. Early detection via oral pathology and biopsy is critical for effective treatment and the best possible outcomes.
When you choose Electric City Dentistry for Oral Pathology & Biopsy, you can generally expect the following steps:
Initial Consultation & Medical History: Review of your overall health, risk factors (e.g., tobacco or alcohol use), and any symptoms such as sores, lumps, or persistent pain.
Comprehensive Oral Examination: Visual and tactile assessment of any lesions, discolorations, or tissue irregularities in the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of mouth, palate, and gums. Photographic documentation and measurement of lesion size and location.
Diagnostic Imaging (if Indicated): Intraoral photos or radiographs (periapical, panoramic, or CBCT) to assess deeper tissue involvement and rule out osseous changes.
Biopsy Planning & Informed Consent: Discussion of the type of biopsy best suited to your lesion—incisional (sampling a portion) or excisional (removing the entire lesion)—and explanation of risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Comfort & Anesthesia: Administration of local anesthesia (with optional nitrous oxide or IV sedation) to ensure a painless, anxiety-free experience.
Biopsy Procedure
o Incisional Biopsy: A precise portion of tissue is removed when lesions are large or in critical areas.
o Excisional Biopsy: The entire lesion is removed when small enough to allow complete excision with clean margins.
o Brush or Punch Biopsies: In select cases, a less invasive instrument collects surface cells or deeper cores.
Specimen Handling & Lab Submission
o Immediate placement of tissue in appropriate fixative.
o Detailed labeling and completion of a pathology requisition form outlining clinical notes and diagnostic questions.
o Couriered to an accredited oral pathology laboratory for histologic processing.
Pathology Analysis & Report
o Skilled oral pathologists examine stained tissue slices under the microscope.
o A comprehensive report is issued—typically within 7–10 business days—detailing the diagnosis and recommendations for further care.
· Follow-Up & Result Discussion
o In-office appointment to review pathology findings, discuss their implications, and answer all your questions.
Treatment Planning & Referral (If Needed): Based on results—ranging from benign reactive lesions to dysplasia or malignancy—our team will recommend appropriate management: monitoring, surgical excision, referral to a specialist (oral surgeon or oncologist), or adjunctive therapies.
Post-Procedure Care & Monitoring: Personalized instructions for pain control, oral hygiene, and dietary modifications to promote rapid healing. Periodic re-evaluations to ensure no recurrence and to maintain oral health.
What to Expect:
At Electric City Dentistry, our expert team of doctors, dentists, anesthesiologists, and hygienists combine gentle surgical technique, meticulous specimen handling, and clear communication to guide you through every step of the oral pathology and biopsy process. We’ll examine suspicious lesions or growths using visual checks and possibly a biopsy. The removed tissue is sent to a lab for evaluation. Early detection saves lives—let us help you safeguard your oral health. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation.
Advantages:
Early detection of oral cancer or disease
Peace of mind through professional diagnosis
Enables prompt, targeted treatment
Aftercare:
Avoid disturbing the site for 24–48 hours. Follow dietary restrictions and pain management guidance. We’ll contact you with results and next steps.