5 Questions to Ask Before Your Dental Biopsy Appointment at Main Street Smiles

We know that the word “biopsy” might not be something you ever want to hear, especially when it is tied to your health. But, doctors and dentists recommend biopsies for a wide variety of reasons, and the majority of biopsy results come back negative. 

That said, if your dentist recently recommended that you get a biopsy, we want you to rest assured that it’s a routine procedure. A dental biopsy simply means that we want to better understand what’s beneath the surface, if anything at all. It helps us to identify unusual spots, lumps, or lesions so that we can suggest the right treatment plan.

At Main Street Smiles in Barrington, IL, our goal is to make every step involved with dental biopsies clear and comfortable. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 5 questions that you should be prepared to ask if your dentist recommends a biopsy.

1. Why is a biopsy being recommended for me?

Obviously, the first thing you want to understand is why your dentist is suggesting a dental biopsy. In many cases, a dental biopsy is just a precautionary step to rule out things like mouth cancer or to investigate areas that appear unusual.

Sometimes, your dentist may notice white or gray patches called leukoplakia, which can develop from chronic irritation or other factors. Most of the time, these areas are harmless. However, a biopsy can help us to confirm that everything is, indeed, healthy. By examining just a small tissue sample, we can provide you with peace of mind and help determine if any additional treatments or monitoring are in order.

2. What type of biopsy will be performed?

Once you understand why a biopsy is being recommended, it’s helpful to know what type will be performed. Your dentist will typically choose between an incisional or excisional biopsy. An incisional biopsy involves removing a small section of tissue from the area in question, which is then sent to a lab for closer examination. 

An excisional biopsy, on the other hand, removes the entire area or lesion for analysis. Both types are performed using a small surgical tool, and the site is closed with sutures afterward. The type of biopsy your dentist performs will depend on the size, shape, and location of the area being evaluated.

3. What should I expect during the procedure?

It’s natural to wonder, does a biopsy hurt and what should I expect during the procedure? So, the thing to know is that during a dental biopsy, your comfort is always the priority. The procedure begins with your dentist numbing the area using a local anesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain while the tissue sample is taken. You may feel a quick pinch from the injection or a small amount of pressure as the sample is removed. 

The tissue, taken from your mouth or oropharynx, is then sent to a pathologist to check for irregular cells. After the anesthetic wears off, some tenderness or mild discomfort is normal, especially if the biopsy was done in a sensitive area. Most patients manage this easily with Tylenol. Avoid medications like aspirin or Advil, which can increase bleeding. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions before you go home.

4. How should I prepare before the dental biopsy appointment?

Preparing for your dental biopsy doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. A few simple steps can help you feel ready and keep your appointment running smoothly. While we will provide you with specific pre- and post-procedure actions, here are some suggestions you can anticipate. 

• Avoid eating or drinking anything for eight hours before your appointment, including water, coffee, gum, or mints.
• If your dentist prescribed medication to take beforehand, use only a small sip of water.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing with a short-sleeved shirt. Skip makeup, nail polish, and false lashes.
• Arrange for a responsible adult to bring you to the appointment, wait during the procedure, and drive you home.
• Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours before your biopsy. This is also a great opportunity to consider quitting altogether.

5. When and how will I get my results?

The time it will take to get your biopsy results will vary. Typically, however, results will come in within two weeks from the date of your procedure. Once the pathologist has completed their review, your dentist or dental assistant will contact you, usually by phone or email, to share the results and explain what they mean. 

If further care or monitoring is needed, your dentist will outline the next steps and answer any questions you may have. No matter the outcome, the team at Main Street Smiles will be with you every step of the way.

Overdue for a professional dental cleaning? Schedule your next appointment today. 

One of the best ways to stay on top of your oral health, and your overall health, is by staying on top of your professional dental cleanings. By paying us a visit every six months, our team can monitor any oral health issues that have been identified at previous visits. Further, consistent visits help us to better identify any changes that have developed between appointments.

Remember, biopsies are just one example of how general dentistry plays a super important role in protecting your long-term oral health. Regular visits allow our team to detect changes early and provide the right care at the right time. If you have questions or concerns about a biopsy, contact Main Street Smiles today.