Covington Hammond 
Tori Removal
Tori are excess bony growths in the mouth, which can interfere with your comfort, oral hygiene, and dental treatments. At The OMS Center of South Louisiana, our skilled oral surgery team, led by Dr. Joshua S. Brandner, DDS, MD, specializes in safe and effective tori removal procedures to restore function, improve comfort, and support your oral health goals.
With advanced techniques and a patient-centered approach, we ensure a smooth experience, minimal discomfort, and lasting results. Whether tori are causing discomfort or preventing necessary dental work, we are here to help you achieve a healthier, more functional smile.
Tori are benign, bony growths that form in the mouth, often on the:
Though the exact cause of tori remains unclear, factors such as genetics, teeth grinding (bruxism), or excessive jaw stress are believed to contribute to their development.
While generally harmless, tori can pose challenges to oral comfort and function. They may interfere with dental work, making it difficult to properly fit dentures or other appliances and hindering effective treatment. Larger tori can irritate the surrounding soft tissues or make chewing and other oral functions uncomfortable. Additionally, their location and shape can complicate daily oral hygiene, leading to plaque buildup or gum irritation around the area.
Dr. Brandner begins with a thorough examination and advanced imaging to evaluate the size and location of the tori. He will discuss the procedure, address your concerns, and explain the expected results.
During the procedure, your comfort is our priority. Tori removal is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area, but sedation options such as IV sedation are available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience.
Using precise techniques, Dr. Brandner will carefully remove the excess bony growths. The procedure is minimally invasive, with a focus on protecting surrounding tissues and reducing discomfort. Most procedures are completed in under an hour. Afterward, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions to ensure smooth healing. Minor swelling or tenderness is common but subsides within a few days.
If you are experiencing discomfort or difficulty with your dental care due to tori, Dr. Brandner will assess your condition and recommend the best course of treatment. Tori removal becomes necessary when these bony growths interfere with your oral health, comfort, or dental care. Common reasons for tori removal include:
Tori can obstruct the proper fit of full or partial dentures. Removing them ensures a stable, comfortable fit.
Large tori can trap food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of gum disease and irritation.
In some cases, tori can cause irritation when eating, chewing, or speaking.
Tori removal may be required before orthodontic or restorative treatments to optimize outcomes.
Tori removal is an excellent option for individuals facing discomfort or challenges caused by excess bony growths in the mouth. You may be a candidate if you wear dentures that don’t fit securely due to tori, experience irritation or difficulty chewing and speaking caused by large tori, or struggle with oral hygiene as a result of trapped food particles around the growths. Tori removal can also be key to ensuring successful outcomes for dental treatments like implants, dentures, or orthodontics by creating a smooth and stable foundation.
However, certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled bleeding disorders or severe dental infections, may require treatment before undergoing tori removal. Dr. Brandner will thoroughly evaluate your overall health and oral condition to determine the safest and most effective approach.
Recovery after tori removal is generally quick and straightforward. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within 1-2 days. Complete healing typically occurs within 1-2 weeks.
Post-Operative Care Tips:
Our team will provide clear aftercare instructions and support throughout your recovery process.
Most patients experience immediate relief following tori removal. Discomfort caused by the excess bony growth is often resolved right after the procedure. While minor swelling or tenderness may occur initially, most patients see full results within 1-2 weeks as the area heals completely.
Tori removal provides long-lasting results. Once the excess bone is removed, it does not typically grow back unless factors like teeth grinding (bruxism) or significant jaw stress persist. With proper oral care, including addressing habits that may contribute to bone growth, patients can enjoy a lifetime of improved comfort and oral function.
No, tori removal is performed under anesthesia or sedation to ensure a pain-free experience. Post-procedure discomfort is minimal and manageable with over-the-counter medications.
Most patients recover within 1-2 weeks, with minor swelling or tenderness for a few days following the procedure.
In most cases, tori do not return after removal. However, ongoing factors like teeth grinding or jaw stress may contribute to their regrowth over time.
You should stick to a soft food diet for the first few days to avoid irritation, then gradually return to your normal diet as you heal.
Excess bone growth can interfere with the fit of dentures. Removing tori creates a smooth, stable surface for optimal comfort and function.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour, depending on the size and location of the tori.
