Tori Removal in Clarksville & Pleasant View, TN

Tori are benign bony growths that can develop in various parts of the oral cavity. They are generally harmless and often discovered incidentally during routine dental exams or imaging studies. Despite their benign nature, tori can sometimes cause discomfort, interfere with oral function, or present challenges during dental procedures. Understanding the types of tori and their potential impact on oral health is crucial for determining the need for removal.

Types of Tori

• Palatal Tori: These are bony growths that occur on the hard palate, the roof of the mouth. Palatal tori typically appear as a single large growth or multiple smaller nodules and are often asymptomatic. However, they can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with the fitting of dental prosthetics.
• Mandibular Tori: Also known as buccal tori, these growths develop on the inner surface of the mandible (lower jaw), usually along the premolar area. Mandibular tori are often bilateral, meaning they occur on both sides of the jaw. They can be a source of discomfort and can complicate the fitting of dentures or other dental appliances.
• Exostoses: While not technically tori, exostoses are similar bony growths that can appear on the buccal (cheek) side of the upper or lower jaw. These growths can be solitary or multiple and may require removal if they cause pain or functional issues.

Reasons for Tori Removal

While tori are usually harmless, there are several reasons why removal might be necessary:

• Discomfort and Pain: Tori can sometimes become painful, especially if they are irritated by chewing or if they cause pressure on surrounding tissues. In such cases, removal may be recommended to alleviate discomfort.
• Interference with Dental Appliances: Tori can interfere with the fitting of dentures, partials, or other dental prosthetics. If a patient experiences difficulties with these appliances due to the presence of tori, removal may be needed to ensure a proper fit.
• Functional Issues: Large or prominent tori may impact oral function, including speaking and chewing. Removing tori that cause functional difficulties can help improve overall oral comfort and performance.
• Preventative Measures: In some cases, tori may be removed as a preventative measure if they are expected to cause issues in the future, such as complications with dental procedures or prosthetics.
• Cosmetic Concerns: For some patients, tori may be a cosmetic concern, particularly if they are prominent and affect the appearance of the smile. Removal can be performed for aesthetic reasons to enhance the appearance of the oral cavity. Call us to learn more.

The Tori Removal Procedure

Tori removal is a surgical procedure performed by oral surgeons with expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The goal of the procedure is to remove the bony growths safely and effectively while minimizing discomfort and promoting quick recovery. Here is an overview of the tori removal process at Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates:

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The first step in the tori removal process is a thorough consultation with one of our skilled oral surgeons. During this initial visit, the oral surgeon will:

• Review Medical History: Understanding the patient’s medical history, including any existing health conditions or medications, is essential for planning the surgery.
• Conduct a Clinical Examination: The oral surgeon will perform a detailed examination of the oral cavity to assess the size, location, and characteristics of the tori.
• Order Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays or other imaging studies may be ordered to obtain a detailed view of the tori and surrounding structures. This helps the oral surgeon plan the surgical approach and determine the best technique for removal.
• Discuss Treatment Options: The oral surgeon will explain the recommended treatment options, including the benefits and potential risks of the surgery. Patients will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns before proceeding.

Preoperative Preparations

Before the tori removal procedure, several preparations are made to ensure a smooth and successful surgery:

• Anesthesia Options: The oral surgeon will discuss anesthesia options with the patient, including local anesthesia (numbing the area) or sedation (to help the patient relax). The choice of anesthesia will depend on the complexity of the procedure and patient preferences.
• Preoperative Instructions: Patients will receive specific instructions regarding preoperative care, including dietary restrictions and guidelines for medication use. It is important to follow these instructions to ensure optimal surgical outcomes.

The Surgical Procedure

On the day of the procedure, the oral surgeon will perform the tori removal using the following steps:

• Administration of Anesthesia: Depending on the chosen method, local anesthesia or sedation will be administered to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
• Incision and Removal: The oral surgeon will make a precise incision in the mucosa (soft tissue) over the tori to access the bony growth. The tori will be carefully removed using specialized surgical instruments. In some cases, the oral surgeon may also perform a bone reduction if necessary to ensure a smooth surface.
• Closure: After the tori are removed, the incision site will be closed with sutures. The oral surgeon will ensure that the area is properly sutured to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications.
• Postoperative Care: The oral surgeon will provide detailed postoperative care instructions, including guidelines for pain management, oral hygiene, and dietary recommendations. It is important for patients to follow these instructions to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

Recovery from tori removal typically involves some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications and home care measures. Key aspects of postoperative care include:

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications may be recommended to manage discomfort. Patients should follow the oral surgeon’s instructions for medication use.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Patients should follow the oral surgeon’s guidelines for brushing, rinsing, and avoiding any actions that could disrupt the surgical site.
• Dietary Recommendations: A soft diet may be recommended for a few days following the procedure to avoid irritating the surgical area. Patients should avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods during the initial healing period.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. The oral surgeon will assess the surgical site, remove sutures if necessary, and ensure that the area is healing as expected.

Conclusion

Tori removal is a specialized surgical procedure that requires the expertise of skilled oral surgeons. At Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for patients with tori, ensuring that their oral health and comfort are prioritized. Whether you are experiencing discomfort, functional issues, or cosmetic concerns due to tori, our team is here to offer expert diagnosis and treatment.

If you suspect you have tori or if you are experiencing any related issues, contact Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates to schedule a consultation. Our oral surgeons will provide a thorough evaluation, discuss treatment options, and develop a personalized plan to address your needs. Your oral health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Ready to enhance your smile with expert care? At Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates, we offer top-notch oral surgery services at three convenient locations. Visit our Rudolphtown Rd Suite office at 2285 Rudolphtown Rd Suite 200, Clarksville, TN 37043, or our Parkway office at 1275 Parkway Pl, Clarksville, TN 37042, or our Pleasant View office at 2524 TN-49E, Pleasant View, TN 37146. (931) 552-3292 or send a fax at 931-552-3243 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you!