What Are the Types of Gum Biopsies to Be Aware Of?
Posted on 6/22/2020 by Dr. Michael Wockenfus
A gum biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is removed from your gums to check for oral health problems. After the sample is taken, it will be sent to a laboratory where it will be examined further. We most commonly implement this method when checking gum tissue that looks strange. The ultimate goal of a gum biopsy is to check for oral cancer that may have formed.
There are many different types of gum biopsies. Depending on the situation, the most effective method will be used to extract a tissue sample from the gums. Most methods only require local anesthesia so you should be able to leave our offices after the tissue sample is collected.
Types of Gum Biopsies
The most widely used type of gum biopsy is called an incisional biopsy. Like the name suggests, this type of biopsy involves creating a small incision where the affected gum is. Once the tissue is removed, we may be able to determine if the corrupted tissue has spread or is localized to a small area.
In some cases, an excisional biopsy may be utilized. What makes this method different than in incisional biopsy is that surface tissue will be removed. This method is used when there is a growth on the top of the gums that can be removed by cutting it off. After the growth is removed, it is also sent to a lab for inspection.
The last type of biopsy is known as a brush biopsy. Brush biopsies don't require in cutting like the previous methods and are usually painless. We will collect a sample by brushing the affected area with a brush. By brushing the area, some of your gum will be transferred to the brush which will then be analyzed.
Give us a call if you have any questions about the methods we use when collecting tissue for a biopsy. If you've been recommended to get a biopsy, we will be glad to schedule an appointment for you to have one.
Dental Blog | Dentist Menasha, WI | Mid Valley Dental, S.C. Michael J. Wockenfus, DDS created a blog to educate the community. It is your resource for all dentistry questions. Learn and read topics in the blog here! Mid Valley Dental, SC, 903 E. Airport Road, Menasha, WI 54952 • (920) 215-4160 • midvalleydental.com • 12/7/2024 • Page Terms:dentist Menasha WI •
A gum biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is removed from your gums to check for oral health problems. After the sample is taken, it will be sent to a laboratory where it will be examined further. We most commonly implement this method when checking gum tissue that looks strange. The ultimate goal of a gum biopsy is to check for oral cancer that may have formed. 
