F.A.Q.
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What is the cost to ship a biopsy?
There is no fee for shipping us a biopsy. Please use the postage-paid envelope from the biopsy kit we sent you. If you didn't receive a biopsy kit, you can order one here at no charge.
Please take note that we are note responsible for the transport of the specimens. Fees paid by the SHBMF are those for regular mail by an agreement with Canada Post. Dentists wishing to ship their specimens by registered mail must assume the expenses.
- Where can I get formalin jars?
You simply have to fill out a short order form and we will ship you some for free.
- Who are the specialists who read the slides?
Dr. Sylvie-Louise Avon
Dr. Avon graduated from the Faculté de médecine dentaire de l'Université Laval. She obtained a Master's degree in Dental Sciences from the same institution. From 1999 to 2003, she studied at the University of Toronto where she completed a graduate program in oral pathology and oral medicine. She is currently finishing a Ph.D. in Forensic sciences. Dr. Avon is a full professor at the Faculté de médecine dentaire de l'Université Laval. She practices at the clinique des professeurs of the Faculté de médecine dentaire where she sees patients for consultations.
Dr. Steve Tremblay
Dr. Tremblay graduated from the Faculté de médecine dentaire de l'Université Laval in 1999 and also obtained a Master's degree in Dental Sciences from the same institution in 2001. Later on, he completed a M.Sc in oral pathology and oral medicine at University of Toronto where his main focus of research was molecular biology (oncology). Dr. Tremblay is an associate professor at the Faculté de médecine dentaire de l'Université Laval. He also practices oral medicine et sees patients for consultation in private clinics and at the hospital in Quebec City and Trois-Rivières. For more information, check his website.
- How much does a histopathological examination cost?
All necessary information can be found here.
- Once the specimen is in the formalin jar, how long do I have to send it to you?
Actually, once the specimen is in formalin, it doesn't deteriorate and can be stored indefinitly. However, the sooner we receive the specimen, the faster your patient gets a diagnosis.
- How long does it take to get the report?
Once we receive the specimen, it is processed by the laboratory and then examined. The report follows quickly. Generally, you will get the results 4 days after we receive the specimen. To accelerate the process, the report is transmitted by fax to your office. Exceptionally, when special stains or immunohistochemistry are necessary, it can take up to 2-3 weeks to send the report.
- Are there additional fees for special stains and immunohistohemistry?
No, these services are included in the examination fee.
- Do you perform direct immunofluorescence examination?
Yes. However, specimens have to be sent in Michel's solution. To order some for free, please contact us.
- Do dental insurance companies cover histopathological examination?
As you know, coverage by insurance companies varies greatly. A majority of dental insurance companies cover these fees. However, it would be prudent to verify with the company before submitting your sample.
General practitioners:
One only has to add the lab fees for the histopathological examination to the biopsy cost on the insurance form similar to lab fees for dentures or crowns (exemple).
Dental specialists:
One only has to add the lab fees for the histopathological examination under the code 04335 (histopathologic examination of a tissue biopsy).
- If I'm not familiar with histopathological reports, may I contact you for more information?
Absolutely! Our role is to offer you a histopathology service wether you are familiar or not with pathology. Therefore, you can contact us with any question. Please do so here.
- I received a pathology report and I want to refer the patient for further treatments. Who should I contact?
We collaborate we different specialists in dentistry and medicine. Contact us and it will be our pleasure to help you.
- One of my patients needs a biopsy, but I would prefer that a specialist take care of it. Can I refer the patient to your clinic?
We will be happy to meet your patient! We are all specialists in oral medicine and we meet patients on a regular basis for exams, biopsies, treatments and follow-ups. Occasionnally, we collaborate with other specialists (periodontists, oral surgeons) so as to offer optimal services to patients. To make an appointment for your patient, please contact us here
- Do I have to send you a radiograph with the specimen?
If you have a radiograph of the biopsied region, it is highly recommended to send it with the specimen. In many circumstances, radiographs are essential for a final diagnosis. We will send it back to you with your statement of operations.
- I have other questions. How can I contact you?
You can contact us by email or by phone, at your convenience.