Effective treatments start with accurate diagnoses: FAQs about oral pathology services (biopsy)
“Pathology” is the study of disease. Notably, this branch of medicine provides diagnostic insights into the source or underlying cause of symptoms or changes such as persistent pain. At the Periodontal Center of Georgia, pathology services include biopsies. Such diagnostic services are invaluable to our specialists in Conyers; we cannot effectively treat an oral condition or problem unless we understand it.
What is a biopsy?
A biopsy may be recommended if we find any anomalies that could be indicative of malignant (cancerous) cysts or tumors. While most growths are benign (not cancerous), certain symptoms or changes can be red flags for conditions such as oral cancers. If, for instance, red or white discoloration, hard lumps, or persistent sores are found during an evaluation, we may take a small sample of the affected tissue. This tissue sample (or biopsy) is then examined at the microscopic level for the presence of cancer cells. Findings from a biopsy are then used to recommend “next steps” to aggressively treat the cancer or other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
How do you remove the tissue?
As specialists, Drs. Jean-Max Jean-Pierre and Robert Creager have the skills and capabilities to perform many precision biopsy techniques. Depending on your needs, the sample may be gently lifted or scraped away using an exfoliative cytology approach. This is the least invasive method of biopsy. The next step up in terms of invasiveness is the incisional biopsy, which involves removing only part of the abnormal tissue, and the excisional biopsy, which is the same as its incisional counterpart. The only difference is that a little bit of tissue surrounding the suspicious area is also removed. Other techniques include drawing out and examining fluids or cells from suspicious lumps.
Will it hurt?
No service or treatment at our center should ever hurt. While the conditions we treat are often associated with discomfort, treatment itself should never be uncomfortable. Some biopsy techniques are so noninvasive that numbing anesthetic is not necessary; however, for more invasive approaches, anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort. For most patients, sensations are limited to a slight pinch or pinprick feeling as the anesthetic is applied. You may also feel slight pressure as dental instruments are used to remove the tissue. Be sure to contact us if you have persistent soreness. We are here to help!
When will I get my results?
We will keep you up to date and provide an estimated timeframe for results. Samples are generally sent to a lab, whereby another specialist (an oral and maxillofacial pathologist) will evaluate the tissue under a microscope. Once a full report has been completed, our periodontist will go over the findings with you and discuss the next steps. With prompt detection and intervention, we can stop the spread of oral cancers. In turn, our specialists support a healthy mouth and so much more. Routine screenings, accurate and proactive diagnoses, and effective treatments really can save lives.
Do not ignore any concerning changes to your mouth. Contact the Periodontal Center of Georgia with additional or specific questions. Our team in Conyers, GA, can be reached at (770) 767-0603.