At New York Periodontics, we perform different types of oral biopsies to help diagnose abnormalities in the mouth. A biopsy is a small tissue sample that is removed and sent to an oral histopathologist, who examines it under a microscope to determine exactly what the lesion is.
Biopsies are important because not every spot, bump, ulcer, or discoloration in the mouth can be diagnosed by appearance alone. Some lesions are harmless, while others may represent infection, inflammation, precancerous changes, tumors, or oral cancer.
You should contact a periodontist if you notice:
Early diagnosis is essential. Many oral conditions are much easier to treat when they are found early.
The entire lesion is removed and sent for analysis. This is often done when the lesion is small enough to remove completely.
A small piece of the lesion is removed for diagnosis. This is used when the lesion is larger or when only a sample is needed.
Cells are gently collected from the surface of a lesion. This may be used as a screening tool, but deeper tissue biopsy may still be needed for a final diagnosis.
After the biopsy is completed, the tissue is analyzed by a histopathologist. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, we review the results and determine the appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the finding, treatment may involve monitoring, medication, additional removal, referral to another specialist, or further surgical care.
At New York Periodontics, our goal is to diagnose oral lesions early, treat them appropriately, and help protect each patient’s long-term oral and overall health.
