The dos and don'ts of an oral mucosal biopsy performed by the general dentist.

The recognition of a pathologic entity is only the first step in the chain of events which must be performed for accurate diagnoses and appropriate patient management. Other steps include selection of the type of biopsy to be performed; proper biopsy technique, instrumentation and specimen handling; appropriate fixation; detailed documentation; and postoperative patient instructions. If the clinician performs each step carefully and correctly, the patient is ensured of receiving an accurate diagnosis in the shortest possible period of time.