Tori, or exostoses, are benign bone growths that commonly appear in the oral cavity, particularly on the inner surfaces of the lower jaw (mandibular tori) or the roof of the mouth (palatal tori). Tori/bone growth removal is a surgical procedure aimed at excising these overgrowths when they cause discomfort, interfere with speech, chewing, or the fit of dentures, or if they become ulcerated or infected.
The procedure typically involves local anesthesia, followed by carefully removing the bone protrusion using specialized dental instruments. Postoperative care is crucial to ensure proper healing and to minimize complications such as infection or excessive bleeding. At our dental practice, this surgery is performed by our dentist in Cajon, CA, with specialized training in oral and maxillofacial procedures.
When Is Tori Removal Recommended?
- Tori can sometimes grow large enough to cause discomfort or pain, especially when eating, speaking, or wearing dental appliances like dentures.
- If tori interfere with the proper fit of dental prostheses such as dentures, bridges, or orthodontic appliances, they may need to be removed to improve comfort and functionality.
- The overlying gum tissue can become irritated and ulcerated due to repeated trauma from food or dental appliances rubbing against the tori. Removing the tori can alleviate this irritation and reduce the risk of ulcers.
- In rare cases, tori can increase the risk of infection, particularly if the gum tissue covering them becomes damaged or if proper oral hygiene is difficult to maintain around them. Removing tori can reduce the likelihood of infection and promote oral health.
The Tori Removal Procedure
Initial Assessment and Planning
The process begins with a thorough examination by our dentist. This assessment may involve clinical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays to evaluate the size, location, and characteristics of the tori. Based on this assessment, our dental professional will determine whether tori removal is necessary and plan the surgical approach accordingly.
Anesthesia
On the day of the procedure, the patient will receive anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery. Typically, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area where the tori are located. In some cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used, depending on the patient's preferences and the complexity of the removal.
Incision and Exposure
Once the sedation has taken effect, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue overlying the tori. This incision allows access to the bony growths and provides visibility for the subsequent steps of the procedure.
Bone Removal
Using specialized dental instruments such as chisels, burs, or drills, the dentist will carefully remove the tori. The goal is to excise the bony growths completely while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissues. The dentist may also contour the underlying bone to ensure a smooth and even surface.
Closure
After the tori is removed, the gum tissue will be repositioned and sutured (stitched) back into place. Depending on the type used and the location of the surgical site, sutures may be dissolvable or require removal after a certain period.
Postoperative Care
Proper postoperative care is essential for promoting healing and preventing complications. Patients will receive instructions on how to care for the surgical site, including recommendations for oral hygiene, dietary modifications, and pain management. Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection, and patients may be advised to avoid certain activities that could disrupt the healing process. Contact us today to learn more!
The Benefits of Tori/Bone Growth Removal
Relief From Discomfort and Pain
Tori can sometimes grow large enough to cause discomfort or pain, especially when eating, speaking, or wearing dental appliances. Removal of tori can alleviate these symptoms and improve overall oral comfort.
Improved Oral Functionality
Large tori can interfere with the proper fit of dental prostheses such as dentures, bridges, or orthodontic appliances, leading to difficulty chewing, speaking, or maintaining proper oral hygiene. Tori removal can restore normal oral function and enhance the fit and stability of dental appliances.
Prevention of Complications
Tori can increase the risk of complications such as ulceration or infection, particularly if the overlying gum tissue becomes irritated or damaged. Removing tori in Cajon, CA, reduces the risk of these complications, promotes better oral health, and reduces the need for additional treatments.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance
In addition to functional concerns, tori can also affect the aesthetic appearance of the mouth, mainly if they are large or located in visible areas. Removal of tori can improve the smile's overall appearance, leading to greater confidence and self-esteem.
Customization of Dental Appliances
Removing tori can allow for better customization of dental appliances such as dentures or bridges, ensuring a proper fit and optimal function. This can improve comfort and reduce the need for frequent adjustments or repairs to dental prostheses.
Long-Term Oral Health
Removing these bony growths can contribute to long-term oral health and well-being by addressing discomfort, functional issues, and potential complications associated with tori. Patients can enjoy improved comfort, function, and aesthetics, improving overall quality of life.
If you're experiencing discomfort, interference with oral function, or other issues due to tori or other benign bone growths in your mouth, consider discussing tori/bone growth removal with our dentist. Visit Ali Haeri D.M.D., M.H.S. at 1297 W Main St., Suite A, El Cajon, CA 92020-4135, or call (619) 579-0505 to learn more.