Biopsy Specialist
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Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants
Periodontics & Implant Dentistry located in Gulfport, MS now serving patients in Biloxi, Ocean Springs, Long Beach, Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian, MS
More than 640,000 people around the world have oral cancer today. If you experience signs or symptoms of cancer or other serious oral health problems, a biopsy can precisely analyze the problem. Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants can give you the answers you need to make informed choices about your health, so call the Gulfport, Mississippi, office to book your biopsy.
Biopsy Q&A
What is a biopsy?
A biopsy is a procedure to remove and test tiny samples of tissue for cancer and other serious health threats. Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants regularly performs oral biopsies, in which they extract and analyze a small amount of tissue from an abnormal growth within your mouth.
When might I need a biopsy?
You might need an oral biopsy if you discover unusual changes in your mouth, or if your dentist detects abnormalities during an exam or treatment. Some of the problems that might require an oral biopsy include:
- Bumps
- Ulcers
- Irregular patches of tissue
- Recurrent infections in one area
- Chronic mouth pain
An oral biopsy is the best way to find out what's causing your issue. Then, the information from your biopsy can guide your treatment.
How does a biopsy work?
There are several types of biopsies, including:
Aspiration biopsy
In an aspiration biopsy, a thin needle pulls a sample of cells from within a suspicious growth. The cells go directly onto a glass slide for testing.
Brush biopsy
A brush biopsy involves lightly abrading a small area within your mouth using a round brush. Then, this cell sample goes onto a glass slide for testing.
Incisional biopsy
An incisional biopsy involves removing a small section of tissue from a suspicious tissue growth, along with a matching sample from a healthy area nearby. This biopsy compares and contrasts the two samples to look for problems and abnormalities.
Excisional biopsy
An excisional biopsy involves removing an entire growth from within your mouth. For example, if you have a small bump in your gums, an excisional biopsy removes the whole bump for testing. Then, just as with an incisional biopsy, the lab checks the suspicious tissue.
In addition to the diagnostic aspect, an excisional biopsy can be a treatment to prevent the growth from worsening.
The type of biopsy you have can depend on several individual factors. Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants always takes the most conservative approach possible while still obtaining the information needed for an accurate diagnosis.
When you need a biopsy, you can trust the oral health specialists at Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants for a smooth and comfortable procedure. Call the office to schedule your biopsy.
