A torus (or tori when plural) is a benign bony growth that can appear in various areas of your mouth. These growths most commonly develop on the roof of the mouth (palatal tori), along the inner side of the lower jaw (mandibular tori), or near the upper molars by the cheeks. Tori are not considered dangerous, and they do not indicate any form of disease or infection. However, depending on their size and location, they may interfere with your daily comfort, especially when eating, speaking or wearing dentures or other oral appliances.
When Tori Become a Problem
Tori are usually discovered during a routine dental examination. Many patients are unaware of their presence until the growths start to cause discomfort. While small tori may never require treatment, larger or multiple growths can create challenges. You might feel irritation when eating crunchy or hot foods, and you may have difficulty speaking clearly or wearing dentures, retainers or night guards. Tori can also trap food particles, increasing the risk of irritation or gum inflammation in the surrounding tissue.
The Tori Removal Process
If our dentists recommends tori removal in Bend, Oregon, it is typically because the growth is interfering with your comfort, your ability to maintain oral hygiene or the fit of a dental appliance. Tori removal is a surgical procedure performed with great care. Our dentists may recommend sedation or general anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. The growth is then carefully shaved down or removed using precise instruments.
Recovery from tori removal is generally smooth, with most patients experiencing mild soreness, swelling or tenderness. Our dentists and team will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help you heal efficiently. You may need to avoid certain foods temporarily and keep the area clean to prevent infection or delayed healing. Any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter medication or a mild prescription.
Why Tori Removal May Benefit You
Choosing to remove tori is often a proactive step in improving your long-term oral health and daily comfort. If left untreated, large tori can make future dental work more complicated and cause chronic irritation. Removing the growths can help you wear oral appliances comfortably, speak more clearly and avoid repeated irritation or injury to the soft tissues in your mouth.
If you have noticed unusual growths in your mouth or if your dentures or oral devices have become uncomfortable, speak with Dr. Alexander Smith or Dr. Thomas Spoonster. We will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Contact Dental Artistry Implants, Crowns and Veneers today to schedule your consultation and learn if tori removal in Bend, OR, is right for you!