Oral tori are benign bony growths that can develop in the mouth. While generally harmless, their removal often brings questions about potential pain. This article provides a realistic overview of the pain experience associated with tori removal surgery, covering what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Understanding Oral Tori and Their Removal
Oral tori are common, non-cancerous bony protrusions that can form in various locations within the mouth. The two most frequently observed types are torus palatinus, on the roof of the mouth (hard palate), and torus mandibularis, on the inner side of the lower jaw. These growths are typically asymptomatic and may vary in size and shape.
Although oral tori are generally harmless, removal may be recommended for several reasons. One common reason is interference with the fit or fabrication of dental prostheses, such as dentures or orthodontic appliances. Tori can also cause chronic irritation or ulceration due to trauma from food or accidental biting, especially if they are large or located in areas prone to friction. Large tori might affect speech or hinder proper oral hygiene by trapping food particles. Removal might also be necessary in preparation for other dental procedures.
The Surgical Procedure and Anesthesia
When considering tori removal, a concern is the pain experienced during the procedure. Tori removal is a routine outpatient oral surgery. During the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the surgical area, ensuring patients do not feel any pain. This numbing agent, lidocaine, blocks pain signals from reaching the brain.
Patients remain conscious throughout the procedure with local anesthesia. While pain is absent, it is common to experience sensations such as pressure, vibration, or movement as the surgeon works. These sensations are distinct from pain and are well-tolerated. For individuals with anxiety, conscious sedation may be offered in addition to local anesthesia. Sedation helps patients relax and feel more comfortable, sometimes making them less aware of the procedure, though they are not fully asleep.
Managing Post-Operative Pain
Following tori removal surgery, it is normal to experience some discomfort as the anesthesia wears off. This post-operative pain is manageable, ranging from mild to moderate, and usually peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours. Discomfort can vary depending on the size and location of the removed tori.
Pain management strategies are effective. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are recommended. If more significant, the oral surgeon may prescribe stronger medication.
Applying ice packs externally to the face, alternating 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 to 48 hours, can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Adhering to a soft diet immediately after surgery helps prevent irritation; foods like soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and scrambled eggs are often recommended. Avoiding hot, spicy, or hard foods is important during the initial healing phase.
What to Expect During Recovery
The recovery period after tori removal involves gradual healing. Initial discomfort and swelling usually begin to subside within a few days to a week. Complete tissue healing typically takes one to two weeks, with the underlying bone remodeling over several weeks, up to eight weeks for full recovery.
Common post-operative symptoms include bruising around the surgical area, which generally resolves within a week or two. Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the surrounding tissues can occur, particularly after mandibular tori removal, but this usually resolves over time. Patients might also experience slight difficulty with speech or eating initially, which improves as swelling decreases and comfort returns.
Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene is important; gentle rinsing with lukewarm saltwater after meals is often advised, while avoiding vigorous rinsing or touching the surgical site directly. Activity restrictions, such as avoiding strenuous physical activity for a few days, are generally recommended to prevent increased bleeding or swelling. It is important to contact the oral surgeon if there is excessive bleeding, severe pain not controlled by medication, fever, or signs of infection like pus or spreading redness.