Oral Biopsy

Incisional biopsy
An incisional gum biopsy is the most common method of gum biopsy. Dr. Ruder will remove a portion of suspicious tissue and have it examined under a microscope. A pathologist can determine if there are cancerous cells in the removed gum tissue. They can also verify the origin of the cells or if they have spread to the gum from somewhere else in your body.

Excisional biopsy
During an excisional gum biopsy, Dr. Ruder may remove an entire growth or lesion.This type of biopsy is normally used to take out a small lesion that is easy to reach. Dr. Ruder will remove it, along with some of the nearby healthy tissue.

Results
The tissue sample taken during your gum biopsy goes to a pathology laboratory. A pathologist, or a doctor who specializes in tissue diagnosis, will examine the biopsy sample under a microscope.

The pathologist will identify any signs of cancer or other abnormalities and make a report for your doctor.

In addition to cancer, an abnormal result from a gum biopsy could show:

systemic amyloidosis: a condition where abnormal proteins, called amyloids, build up in your organs and spread to other parts of your body, including your gums
thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP): a rare, potentially fatal blood clotting disorder that can cause bleeding of the gums
benign mouth lesions or infections