An oral biopsy removes a small piece of tissue from a sore, patch or lump in the mouth so a lab can tell what it is. Dr. Jennifer Okhiria examines and biopsies suspicious areas at The Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite in Atlanta and goes over the results with you.
The two-to-three-week rule
When should a mouth sore be checked?
If a sore, white or red patch, or lump hasn't healed in two to three weeks, it's time to have it looked at. Most turn out to be harmless. Some don't, and those are much easier to treat when they're found early.
What happens during a biopsy?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Dr. Okhiria removes a small piece of tissue, or the whole spot if it's small, and closes it with a few stitches. It usually takes minutes.
How do I get the results?
The tissue goes to a pathology lab. Dr. Okhiria reviews the report and talks it through with you, including whether anything else needs to happen.
Honest limits
If a biopsy shows something that needs cancer treatment, Dr. Okhiria will refer you to the right specialist team and stay in touch with your care.
Cost and scheduling
Biopsies are often covered by dental or medical insurance. The lab bills separately for its part.
Questions patients ask about oral biopsy
Is every mouth sore something serious?
No. Most sores, patches and lumps are harmless, like canker sores or irritation from a sharp tooth. The concern is a spot that doesn't heal in two to three weeks. Dr. Okhiria in Atlanta will examine it and tell you whether a biopsy is needed.
Does a biopsy hurt?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia first, so the biopsy itself shouldn't hurt. Expect some soreness for a few days as it heals. Our Atlanta office sends you home with written instructions and tells you when to expect results.
How long do biopsy results take?
Results usually come back from the pathology lab within about a week or two, depending on the lab. Dr. Okhiria reviews the report herself and contacts you to go over it, including any next steps, from our Atlanta office. She makes that call herself.
What are warning signs of oral cancer?
A sore that won't heal, a white or red patch, a lump, numbness, or trouble swallowing that lasts more than two to three weeks. Tobacco and heavy alcohol use raise the risk. If you notice any of these, call our Atlanta office to have it checked.
Do I need a referral for a biopsy?
Many patients are referred by their dentist or doctor who noticed something, but you can call our Atlanta office directly. Bring any photos or notes about when you first noticed the area, whether it hurts, and whether it has changed.
Request a consult
Send a request and our team will call you to find a time. Most patients come with a referral from their dentist, and you're welcome without one.