8115 Preston Road, Suite 655 Dallas, Texas 75225

(214) 522-9700

Treatments

Biopsies

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Discovering an unusual growth or patch in your mouth can understandably raise concerns. While most oral abnormalities are harmless, proper diagnosis is essential for your peace of mind and oral health.

At Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, providing accurate diagnostic evaluations, including oral biopsies, is a core part of our specialty care. Catching potential issues early often leads to simpler, more effective treatments and better long-term health outcomes.

What Is a Biopsy?

A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure. During a biopsy, we carefully remove a small sample from the affected tissue in your gums, lips, cheeks or other areas. The sample is then sent to a pathology laboratory, where experts called oral pathologists examine it under a microscope to determine whether the cells are normal or abnormal.

Biopsies help us detect various oral conditions and choose an appropriate treatment. This is often the most direct way to get answers about changes in your mouth.

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When Would I Need an Oral Biopsy?

Our periodontists may recommend a biopsy if you experience any of the following:

  • A sore or lesion in your mouth that does not heal within two weeks
  • White or red patches on your gums, tongue, or the lining of your mouth
  • Unexplained swelling in your gums or oral tissues
  • Lumps or thickening of tissues in your mouth or neck

Biopsy testing helps us diagnose conditions such as:

  • Benign growths that may require monitoring or removal
  • Inflammatory conditions affecting the gums and oral tissues
  • Infections that have not responded to standard treatments
  • Systemic conditions that have oral symptoms
  • Oral cancer (ideally in its earliest, most treatable stages)

Addressing concerns promptly is always preferable to waiting and wondering. It is better to biopsy something that turns out to be harmless than to miss an opportunity for early treatment.

What Types of Oral Biopsies Are Available?

There are several biopsy techniques. Some remove a portion of the abnormal tissue for examination, while others remove the lesion in its entirety. We select the most appropriate method based on factors such as the location of the abnormality and its size.

Our goal is to gather the information we need while minimizing any discomfort or disruption to your daily life. Our periodontists will use the least invasive method that can provide an accurate diagnosis.

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Why Should I See a Periodontist for an Oral Biopsy?

Your dentist is a critical part of your general oral care, but when it comes to something specific like a biopsy, seeing a specialist like a periodontist has advantages.

Periodontists complete three additional years of training beyond dental school. This advanced education focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions of the gums and surrounding tissues, including comprehensive training in oral pathology and surgical techniques used for biopsies.

Dr. Tomlin and Dr. Bowers both obtained a Masters in Oral Biology which included three years of stomatology, study of the mouth and its diseases.

If the biopsy shows something that requires further treatment within our field of expertise, like removing a growth or managing related gum issues, you are already in the right place with the right specialist. This enables a smooth transition to treatment and simplifies the coordination of your care.

How Are Lesions Identified for an Oral Biopsy?

We perform an oral cancer exam at each visit, whether you are here for a comprehensive exam or cleaning appointment.

Additionally, we offer OralID as an alternative to a traditional oral cancer exam done by the naked eye. OralID is an optically based technology called “fluorescence technology.”

This technology uses a blue light (435–460 nm) to aid Dr. Tomlin and Dr. Bowers in the visualization of oral mucosal abnormalities, such as oral cancerous and precancerous lesions. OralID is proven to aid in the detection process sooner than conventional visual examination alone.

The Biopsy Process

Our goal is to provide answers without added stress. From your first visit to your follow-up call, the Park Cities Periodontics team approaches every step with careful attention to both your physical comfort and your need for clear communication.

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1

What Happens Before a Biopsy?

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where Dr. Tomlin or Dr. Bowers will:

  • Visually inspect the area of concern
  • Talk to you about any symptoms you are experiencing
  • Review your medical history
  • Take images to help with planning
  • Explain why they recommend a biopsy
2

What Happens During a Biopsy?

Our first priority is your comfort. We begin by thoroughly numbing the area with local anesthetic. For patients who experience dental anxiety, we offer sedation options to help you remain relaxed during your visit.

Once the area is numb, your periodontist will use the appropriate technique to obtain the tissue sample. The procedure is typically completed within 15 to 30 minutes.

3

Does a Biopsy Hurt? 

The local anesthetic we administer completely numbs the area before we begin the biopsy. You may feel some pressure or movement, but the procedure should not be painful.

After the anesthetic wears off, most patients experience only mild discomfort. It can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

4

What Happens After a Biopsy?

Before you leave our office, we will review the aftercare instructions and schedule your follow-up appointment. You will have our contact information so you can reach us with any concerns that may arise.

The tissue sample will be sent to an oral pathology laboratory for analysis. This process typically takes one to two weeks. The pathologist creates a detailed report that describes the characteristics of your tissue sample.

Once we receive your results, you will have a follow-up appointment to discuss them. Your periodontist will:

  • Explain your diagnosis in clear, understandable terms
  • Show you any relevant images that help illustrate the findings
  • Answer all your questions thoroughly
  • Discuss any necessary next steps or treatment recommendations

The follow-up appointment can take place in person or by phone, depending on your preference and the nature of the findings.

Park Cities Experience

“

I am a returning client, and once again, I had an exceptional experience! The entire staff is welcoming, attentive, and highly skilled, making each visit seamless and stress-free. The level of care and attention to detail is truly unmatched. Thanks Team!

CoCo L.

I would not go to anyone other than Park Cities Periodontics and Implant Dentistry. The staff is amazing!! They follow-through to confirm and stay in touch with you from the moment you connect to when your visit is complete with such great enthusiastic attitudes and professional spirit.

Lynne

Dr. Bowers and the staff at Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry are exceptional. They lay out treatment options and clearly describe everything that you should consider. They do not pressure you and do not recommend services that you may not need. I highly recommend you visit Dr. Bowers & her staff.

Phil L.

FAQs

What Could My Biopsy Results Show?

The vast majority of oral biopsies (over 80%) reveal benign conditions. These may include:

  • Normal tissue variations
  • Minor inflammatory conditions
  • Benign growths
  • Healing responses to injury
  • Non-harmful cysts
  • An autoimmune tissue disease

In some cases, the results might show precancerous changes called dysplasia. These are abnormal cells that have the potential to develop into cancer over time. Less commonly, a biopsy may detect oral cancer (malignancy). Finding these conditions at the earliest possible stage improves the outlook and success of treatment.

No matter what your results show, our team is committed to supporting you with clear information and any necessary follow-up care.

How Can I Monitor My Own Oral Health?

Developing a habit of checking your mouth monthly helps you identify changes at their earliest, most treatable stages. Self-examinations are simple to perform and take only a few minutes of your time:

  • Remove any removable dental appliances (dentures, partial dentures, retainers)
  • Use a mirror and good lighting to examine all surfaces of your mouth
  • Look at your lips, gums, inside of your cheeks, roof and floor of your mouth, and tongue
  • Gently pull your cheek outward with your finger to better view the side surfaces
  • Stick out your tongue and examine all surfaces, including underneath
  • Feel along your neck and jaw for any lumps or enlarged lymph nodes

If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, particularly if they last for more than two weeks, please contact our office.

Expert Oral Biopsy Services in Dallas

We know that needing a biopsy might be worrying or bring up questions. At Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, you will find a dedicated team ready to listen to your concerns. Our board-certified periodontists, Dr. Beth Tomlin and Dr. Stephanie Bowers, provide gentle, knowledgeable care that gets you the answers you need.

If you have noticed anything unusual or have questions, do not wait. Contact Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry online or at 214-522-9700 to request a consultation.

Call Us: (214) 522-9700 Message Us Online

Phone: (214) 522-9700

Fax: (214) 522-8181


Address: Preston Commons, East Tower

8115 Preston Road, Suite 655
Dallas, Texas 75225

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