Mandibular or palatal tori are common bony growths. Mandibular tori appear on the inside of the lower jaw, near the tongue, while palatal tori form on the roof of the mouth. These growths can sometimes interfere with speaking, chewing, or the fit of dental prostheses like dentures, leading to surgical removal. Discovering exposed bone after this procedure can be concerning, but understanding its causes and what to do can help manage recovery.
Causes of Exposed Bone After Tori Removal
Exposed bone after tori removal often occurs because the gum tissue, or mucosa, covering these bony outgrowths is naturally very thin and has limited blood supply. This delicate tissue is more susceptible to breakdown or delayed healing following surgery. Its thinness also makes it prone to irritation or ulceration even before surgery, which can worsen post-operatively.
During removal, small, sharp bone fragments, known as bone spicules, may remain or become dislodged from the surgical site. These spicules can prevent the overlying gum tissue from fully closing and healing smoothly, leading to localized exposure. In some instances, a larger section of bone may lose its blood supply and become non-vital, a condition called sequestrum, which also hinders complete tissue coverage. The size of the tori removed and the extent of surgical manipulation can influence these occurrences.
Treatment and At-Home Care
If you notice exposed bone after tori removal, contact your surgeon immediately. They can assess the area and determine the appropriate course of action. Professional treatments vary, from simply observing the site to allow gum tissue to naturally granulate and cover the bone over time. In other cases, the surgeon might gently smooth any sharp bone edges or remove a loose bone fragment that is preventing healing.
For at-home care, maintain gentle oral hygiene to avoid irritating the exposed area. After the initial 24 hours, when rinsing should be avoided to protect blood clots, a lukewarm saltwater rinse can be used multiple times daily to keep the area clean and promote healing. Your surgeon may also prescribe an antimicrobial rinse to reduce bacteria. Adhere to a soft food diet, consuming items like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, while avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could injure the site. Drinking plenty of water is beneficial for recovery, but avoid using straws as suction can dislodge healing clots.
Healing Timeline and Complications
Healing from exposed bone after tori removal can take longer than a typical dental extraction, often requiring several weeks for gum tissue to fully cover the underlying bone. While initial discomfort and swelling usually improve within a week or two, complete tissue regeneration can extend for four to eight weeks, sometimes longer depending on the original tori’s size. Normal healing involves a gradual reduction in pain and swelling, with any bruising typically fading within one to two weeks.
Differentiate between expected healing and potential complications, such as infection. Signs warranting immediate contact with your surgeon include persistent or increasing pain that does not subside, excessive swelling or redness around the surgical site, and a foul odor or taste. Other indicators include pus drainage, or systemic symptoms like fever above 100.4°F or chills, suggesting a spreading infection. Prompt attention to these signs can help prevent further issues.