Oral Diagnosis and Biopsies

An oral biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from an abnormal area inside the mouth and sending it to a laboratory for further testing. This procedure is recommended when a dentist cannot make a clear diagnosis through a clinical exam, X-rays, and evaluation of symptoms alone.

Common Oral Diseases

A pathologist may examine biopsy samples to detect a range of oral conditions, including:

• Oral Cancer: Often appearing as a persistent sore or growth that does not heal, oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
• Leukoplakia: Thick, white patches that develop on the gums, inner cheeks, tongue, or floor of the mouth.
• Lichen Planus: A chronic inflammatory condition affecting the mucous membranes of the mouth. It may appear as white lacy patches, red swollen tissues, or open sores and is often accompanied by discomfort or burning sensations.
• Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid: A rare autoimmune condition that can cause lesions on the gums, tongue, palate, or other oral tissues.
• Pregnancy Tumors: Benign raised nodules that may develop during pregnancy and can vary in sensitivity.

Systemic diseases such as diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and heart disease may also produce noticeable changes or abnormalities in the mouth.

Oral Pathology

Oral pathology is the dental specialty focused on diagnosing and managing diseases of the mouth and maxillofacial region. Diagnosis may involve radiographic imaging, microscopic examination, biochemical testing, and clinical evaluation. Oral pathologists assist dentists by analyzing biopsy samples and identifying conditions such as mouth and throat cancer, salivary gland disorders, ulcers, infections, and other oral diseases.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Medical research has shown that using a patient’s own blood components can enhance healing and tissue regeneration during surgical procedures. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains concentrated platelets, plasma, and white blood cells that release growth factors to promote faster recovery.

In oral surgery, PRP is often used to support both hard and soft tissue healing. The plasma proteins are collected through a brief in-office process and applied during surgery to improve healing outcomes. PRP can be especially beneficial for patients with a history of delayed healing or tissue regeneration challenges.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the removal of tissue to determine whether disease is present. In dentistry, biopsies are commonly performed to evaluate suspicious lesions and to help diagnose conditions such as oral cancer. A brush biopsy may be used initially to assess abnormal areas that require further investigation.

If you notice unexplained sores, growths, or lesions in your mouth, it is important to have them evaluated promptly. While not all abnormalities are cancerous, professional examination is essential.

Types of Oral Biopsies

Depending on the characteristics of the lesion, several biopsy techniques may be used:

• Aspiration: A needle and syringe are used to withdraw a sample from within a lesion.
• Brush Biopsy: A circular brush is rotated firmly against the lesion to collect cells, which are then transferred to a slide for microscopic evaluation.
• Excisional Biopsy: Used for small, likely benign lesions, this method removes the entire abnormal area.
• Incisional Biopsy: A portion of a larger lesion is removed for examination.
• Punch Biopsy: A circular blade instrument is rotated into the tissue to remove a small cylindrical sample for laboratory testing.