An oral biopsy is simple test that helps diagnose problems with your mouth. It is done if you have a lesion (abnormal area inside your mouth).<br />A small sample of tissue will be taken from inside your mouth. For example, from your tongue, lip, gum or inside of your cheek.<br />The sample is sent to a laboratory to be examined under a microscope. This helps us to find what is causing your problem.<br />Risks of an oral biopsy<br />The risks are very small, but having a biopsy might cause you some pain, bleeding, discomfort and swelling.<br />There is small risk that tiny nerves might be damaged in the area where the biopsy is taken. Any risks will be explained to you before you have a biopsy.<br />During an oral biopsy<br />An oral biopsy usually takes about 30 minutes.<br />It will be done under a local anaesthetic, which means you will be awake during the procedure, but the area will be numb so you will not feel anything.