Tori is an extra bone growth on the upper and lower jawbones. It can be removed surgically. Tori is not cancerous and do not need additional treatment, except for removal. Ignoring this issue, will give you speech problems and restrict you from enjoying the foods you like.
Symptoms Of Tori Overgrowth
The most common symptoms of tori removal are:
- Inflammation of gums
- Loose teeth
- Irritated tonsils
- Throat pain
- Sore Jaw
- Slurred speech
- Ill-fitting dentures and removable prosthesis
Surgery is recommended when tori starts interfering with speech or life quality. The dentist will examine your mouth, how much the bone has grown, and the symptoms you are experiencing to determine if surgery is required.
Why Do You Need Tori Removal?
Need dentures
Dentures are required when you have lost all or most of your teeth. Tori will make it impossible for the dentures to fit. It will cause severe irritation on your gum tissue if dentures sit upon them. The dentist will recommend tori removal, in this case.
Need braces
Tori makes it difficult for dentists to place braces on your teeth. It makes adjusting the braces difficult. Patients with overgrown tori usually need to have it removed before getting braces.
Food Impaction
Some toris become so large that food becomes trapped beneath them. This contributes to the accumulation of bacteria and ultimately leads to periodontal disease. Tori removal is recommended for the sake of maintaining good oral hygiene.
Experience pain while eating
Tori becomes sensitive to hard foods, or foods with extreme temperatures. Tori removal is the best solution if it is preventing you from enjoying your favorite foods.
How Is Tori Removal Surgery Performed?
Tori removal is simpler than other surgical procedures. These are the steps for tori removal:
- Dentists and dental staff review your health history.
- Local anesthesia numbs the operation area.
- The dentist uses a blade to open the gum tissue overlying the excess bone (tori).
- Extra bone tissues are cut off and sanded with the help of dental instruments.
- A saline solution disinfects the area.
- The surgery team uses sutures to close the wound.
Recovery After Tori Removal
It takes 6-8 weeks to recover from tori removal surgery. You should follow the instructions given below to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Discomfort
Slight swelling and pain after tori removal are not unusual. You may also experience dry and chapped lips. A cold pack can be applied to the lower face area to give some comfort. Keep your head elevated for 24-48 hours after surgery. You may experience teeth sensitivity, especially to cold. This will go away after a week of the surgery. Contact your dentist immediately if sensitivity is too extreme.
Slight bleeding
Minor bleeding is normal for 48 hours following the surgery. Avoid hot foods for this period as they can prolong the bleeding. You can gently hold down a gauze to soak up the excess blood. Dentists advise avoiding strenuous activity for a week.
Strict diet
You must follow a soft food diet during the recovery period. Sticky, hard, and acidic foods will increase discomfort. Foods like mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs are best for this period. Drink fruit juice, smoothies, and soup to increase your nutrition intake.
Homecare
A normal oral hygiene routine does not affect the surgery. Rinsing the mouth with lukewarm saltwater after eating is recommended. Avoid vigorously rinsing your mouth. Do not touch the surgical area with either your fingers or tongue.
What Is The Cost Of Tori Removal?
Tori removal procedures cost around $600. Prices vary on the dentist performing your surgery. The complexity of your case also determines the cost. Most dental insurances cover tori removal, so it is advised to check with your carrier.
The Bottom Line
Tori overgrowth interferes with the lifestyle and speech of the patient. It is best to remove tori before it grows too much. Early detection of dental problems reduces the cost of procedures and gives you lesser discomfort.