Understanding this important diagnostic procedure and why your dentist may recommend it.
Hearing the word biopsy can feel unsettling — but in dentistry, it’s often a proactive step that helps protect your oral health. If your dentist has recommended a dental biopsy, you might be wondering what it involves, why it’s necessary, and what to expect.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Dental Biopsy?
A dental biopsy is a diagnostic procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from your mouth — such as your gums, tongue, inner cheeks, or jaw — and sent to a lab for analysis.
The goal? To check for abnormal cells, confirm a diagnosis, or rule out serious conditions like oral cancer or chronic infections.
Dental biopsies are safe, straightforward, and typically performed in a dental or oral surgery clinic.
Types of Dental Biopsies
There are several types of biopsies your dentist or oral surgeon may use, depending on the size and location of the lesion or tissue of concern:
- Excisional biopsy – removes the entire lesion if it’s small enough
- Incisional biopsy – removes a portion of a larger lesion for testing
- Brush biopsy – uses a small brush to collect surface cells (non-invasive)
- Needle biopsy (fine needle aspiration) – typically used for deeper tissues or masses
When Is a Dental Biopsy Necessary?
Your dentist may recommend a biopsy if they notice something unusual during your exam that doesn’t resolve on its own. Common reasons include:
- 🔍 Unexplained Lumps or Growths
Persistent bumps or swellings in your mouth, jaw, or neck that don’t go away after a few weeks may require further investigation. - 🩸 Non-Healing Ulcers or Sores
Sores that bleed easily, don’t heal, or keep recurring — especially if they’re painless — can be signs of underlying issues. - 💄 Changes in Colour or Texture
White, red, or mixed patches (called leukoplakia or erythroplakia) that look different from the rest of your mouth tissue can be early indicators of pre-cancerous changes. - 😷 Suspected Oral Cancer or Infection
Biopsies help confirm or rule out conditions like oral cancer, chronic infections, or autoimmune diseases such as lichen planus or pemphigus.
What to Expect During the Procedure
In most cases, a dental biopsy is a minor outpatient procedure. Here’s what typically happens:
- Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area
- The dentist or specialist removes a small tissue sample
- You may need a stitch or two, depending on the size of the biopsy
- The sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis
- Results are usually available within 7–14 days
You may have some mild discomfort afterward, but recovery is usually quick.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
In Canada, many dental biopsies are considered medically necessary and may be partially or fully covered under provincial healthcare or private insurance — especially if referred through a physician or specialist. Our clinic can help you check your coverage and guide you through the process.
Final Thoughts
A dental biopsy is not something to fear — it’s a smart, preventative step toward protecting your health. If your dentist recommends one, it’s because they want a clear diagnosis so they can provide the best possible care.
If you’ve noticed unusual changes in your mouth, don’t wait. Book a consultation today — early detection makes all the difference.