A bone spur in the gum, also known as an oral exostosis or torus, is a bony growth that can appear along the jawbone or within the mouth. These growths are generally non-cancerous and common, though they can sometimes cause concern. They may feel like a rough or sharp protrusion, and while some are visible, others are only detectable through dental imaging like X-rays.
Understanding Gum Bone Spurs
Bone spurs in the gums are bony swellings that vary in shape, size, and location. They are known as exostoses or tori, with specific names depending on their anatomical site. For instance, a torus palatinus forms on the roof of the mouth, typically in the midline, while mandibular tori develop on the tongue-side of the lower jaw, often near the premolars. Buccal exostoses are found on the cheek-facing side of the upper or lower jaw.
The development of these bony growths is often linked to genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Excessive chewing forces, such as bruxism (teeth grinding), also contribute to their formation. Trauma to the gum or jaw, or the healing process after a tooth extraction or dental implant, can also lead to their formation. These growths typically appear in late adolescence or early adulthood and can increase in size over many years.
Do They Go Away Naturally?
Most established bone spurs in the gums do not resolve on their own. While very small bone fragments, sometimes called spicules, might be expelled from gum tissue over weeks or months, larger, more defined bony growths like tori or exostoses usually remain. This expulsion is more common after dental procedures like tooth extractions, where small pieces of bone may be dislodged.
The underlying bony growth of a true torus or exostosis is a permanent anatomical variation or a response to long-term stimuli. Although their size can fluctuate throughout life, and minor surface irregularities might smooth out over time due to natural wear, the core bony structure persists. This differs from other types of oral lesions or swelling that might resolve spontaneously.
When to Consult a Dentist and Treatment
While many bone spurs are harmless and asymptomatic, you should consult a dentist in certain circumstances. See a dentist if a bone spur causes pain, discomfort, or irritation, especially when eating or speaking. Other reasons include interference with oral hygiene, difficulty with denture placement, or if the overlying gum tissue becomes frequently irritated or ulcerated. Any rapid growth of a bone spur should also be evaluated.
Treatment for problematic bone spurs typically involves minor surgical procedures. These include simple smoothing of the bone, known as alveoloplasty, or complete surgical removal. The procedure usually involves local anesthesia to numb the area, followed by removal or contouring of the bone using specialized dental instruments like chisels or burs. Laser surgery is also an option, offering less trauma to surrounding tissues and potentially increasing comfort during healing, though it may take longer to complete.