What does the term "biopsy" refer to in dentistry?

The term "biopsy" refers specifically to the removal of tissue for diagnostic examination. In dentistry, this procedure is crucial for diagnosing various oral lesions and conditions. When a dentist encounters an abnormal tissue growth or an area of concern in the oral cavity, a biopsy enables the pathologist to evaluate the tissue microscopically. This examination can determine if the tissue is benign or malignant, guiding the treatment plan and influencing patient prognosis.

In contrast, the other options describe different dental procedures and practices that do not involve tissue analysis. For instance, creating a dental mold pertains to impressions taken for restorations or prosthetics, while tooth extraction involves the removal of a tooth from its socket. Cleaning dental instruments is essential for infection control but does not relate to the diagnostic process of examining tissue samples. Thus, "biopsy" is correctly defined by the removal of tissue for examination.