Could you have cancer if your dentist wants to do a biopsy on gums because they purple color them and it is spreading?

The appearance of purple gums and the recommendation for a biopsy are concerning and necessitate a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. While purple gums can sometimes be a normal variation, they can also indicate underlying medical conditions, including cancer.

Cancerous lesions in the mouth or gums can appear as discoloured patches or growths that do not heal or persist over time. They may also bleed or cause discomfort.

A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure commonly performed to determine the nature of suspicious tissues. During a biopsy a sample of the affected tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to check for abnormal cells or signs of cancer.

It's important to note that not all purple gums are necessarily cancerous. Various other conditions, such as inflammatory conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis, trauma or injury, certain medications, or poor oral hygiene can cause purplish gums.

Therefore, it's essential to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. The dentist will assess your gums, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the most appropriate course of action, which may include further testing or treatment.