title: Performing mucosal tissue biopsies in general dental practice.
abstract: One of the roles of a dental practitioner is the identification and management of oral mucosal disease (pathology) in its many forms. A tissue biopsy is an important step in the diagnostic process for oral lesions, while the skill required to perform a biopsy should be well within the capability of most practising dentists. The purpose of this article is to help dental practitioners to identify lesions suitable for biopsy in a dental practice setting, and to outline the equipment and explain the techniques used.
authors.affiliation: National Maxillofacial Unit, St. James's Hospital.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: James
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Toner
authors.forename: L F A
authors.initials: LF
authors.lastname: Stassen
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods*; D001707:Biopsy, Needle / Q000379:methods; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005792:General Practice, Dental; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D008487:Medical History Taking; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology*; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000473:pathology*; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D023861:Photography, Dental; D010808:Physical Examination; D011230:Precancerous Conditions / Q000473:pathology; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods