Tori Removal for Improved Oral Health and Comfort
Tori are benign bone growths that form inside the mouth, usually along the roof of the mouth (palate) or lower jaw. They are often harmless and do not cause pain or discomfort unless the tori interfere with eating, speaking, or oral hygiene. Tori vary in size and shape and are usually discovered during routine dental examinations or when they become large enough for a patient to feel.
Reasons for Removing Tori
Not all tori need to be removed, but there are situations where tori removal is necessary or recommended. You might consider removing tori because of:
- Oral hygiene issues: Tori can make it difficult to clean the affected area properly. Food particles and plaque can accumulate around the gums, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Eliminating tori can improve oral hygiene habits and reduce the risk of oral health problems.
- Discomfort and irritation: Tori can interfere with normal activities such as eating and speaking. Removing the tori may relieve symptoms and restore comfort in the mouth.
- Denture fitting: Tori in the denture-bearing areas of the mouth can make it difficult to fit and wear your dentures properly. By removing the tori, denture wearers can improve the fit and stability of their dentures so they can eat and talk more comfortably.
How Do I Know if the Tori Should be Removed?
The first step is a thorough examination by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). Your OMS will assess tori size, position, and potential impact on oral health and overall comfort. X-rays and/or other imaging tests may be performed to assess the tori and plan your procedure.
Is Anesthesia Used in Tori Removal?
Patients receive local anesthesia to ensure comfort, which numbs the treatment area. In some cases, general anesthesia may also be used, especially if large tori need to be removed or for improved patient comfort.
How are Tori Removed?
Your OMS will carefully remove the tori from the bone. Smoothing or reshaping of the bone can be performed to create an even surface.
Suturing and Recovery
After removing the tori, the incision can be closed with sutures. Depending on the type used, the sutures may dissolve on their own or need to be removed later by your OMS. The healing process is usually accompanied by mild discomfort and swelling, which may be managed with medications and ice packs.
Follow-up Care
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and remove sutures if necessary. Your OMS will provide guidance on oral hygiene practices and dietary restrictions to follow during recovery.
If you have tori and are experiencing any difficulty or discomfort, talk to an OMS who can assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
