When it comes to achieving a comfortable and secure fit for dentures or oral appliances, the shape and condition of the oral structures play a crucial role. For some patients, tori—bony growths in the mouth—can create significant obstacles. Whether located on the roof of the mouth (palatal tori) or on the inside of the lower jaw mandibular tori, these growths can interfere with dental restorations and impact oral function.
At Smiles By Alex in Valencia, CA, we specialize in providing personalized care, including tori removal for patients who need better-fitting dentures, nightguards, or other oral appliances. If you’ve been struggling with discomfort, instability, or poor appliance fit, understanding the role of tori and how their removal can help may be the key to restoring your comfort and confidence.
What Are Tori?
Tori are benign bony growths that develop in the oral cavity, usually due to genetic factors, stress on the jawbone, or other unknown causes. They are not harmful in most cases and do not usually require removal unless they interfere with normal oral functions or dental treatments.
There are two common types:
- Torus Mandibularis – Located on the inner surface of the lower jaw.
- Torus Palatinus – Found on the roof of the mouth (palate).
Though harmless in nature, tori can complicate certain dental procedures, especially those involving removable dental devices.
How Tori Affect Dentures and Oral Appliances
Tori can create numerous complications for patients who wear or need:
- Full or partial dentures
- Nightguards or mouthguards
- Orthodontic retainers
- Sleep apnea appliances
Common Issues Include:
- Poor Fit and Instability: Tori create an uneven surface that makes it difficult for dentures or oral appliances to sit flush against the gum tissue, leading to rocking or slipping.
- Soreness and Ulceration: Pressure points caused by the tori can result in painful ulcers under a denture or guard.
- Difficulty with Suction: Palatal tori can prevent full suction, which is essential for upper dentures to remain secure.
- Hygiene Complications: Food and plaque may get trapped around tori, leading to hygiene issues and bad breath.
The Benefits of Tori Removal
At Smiles By Alex, we often recommend tori removal for patients facing complications due to these bony growths. Here’s how this minor oral surgery can help:
- Improved Denture Fit: By smoothing out the underlying bone, dentures and partials can rest evenly across the gums, providing enhanced comfort, retention, and stability.
- Increased Appliance Comfort: Nightguards, retainers, and sleep apnea devices fit better and cause less pressure when the surface of the mouth is free of obstruction.
- Fewer Sore Spots and Irritation: Once the tori are removed, the likelihood of developing painful pressure sores or ulcers dramatically decreases.
- Better Suction for Upper Dentures: The absence of palatal tori allows for better suction in upper dentures, reducing the need for adhesives.
- Easier Oral Hygiene: Cleaning the gums and oral appliances becomes simpler and more effective after tori removal, leading to better long-term oral health.
What to Expect During Tori Removal
Tori removal is typically performed in a dental office under local anesthesia or conscious sedation for added comfort. The procedure involves:
- Making a small incision in the gum tissue
- Carefully removing or reshaping the bony growth
- Smoothing the bone to eliminate sharp edges
- Suturing the area to allow for proper healing
Recovery typically involves mild swelling, discomfort, and dietary adjustments for a few days, but most patients resume normal activities quickly. At Smiles By Alex, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and follow-up to ensure a smooth healing process.
Is Tori Removal Right for You?
If you:
- Wear dentures or an oral appliance that never quite fits right
- Experience frequent soreness or instability in your device
- Have been told your oral appliance cannot be fitted properly
- Struggle with hygiene or speech issues due to tori
Our team at Smiles By Alex in Valencia, CA will conduct a thorough evaluation, including digital imaging and clinical examination, to determine if removal is the best option for your comfort and function.
Why Choose Smiles By Alex for Tori Removal in Valencia, CA?
With years of experience in advanced dental care and oral surgery, Smiles By Alex is a trusted name in the Valencia, CA community. Our approach to patient care emphasizes:
- A gentle, patient-centered experience
- Use of the latest technology for precision and comfort
- Expert diagnosis and customized treatment plans
- Minimally invasive techniques and quick recovery
We’re here to ensure that your dentures or oral appliances serve you well—comfortably, securely, and effectively.
Take the Next Step Toward Comfort and Confidence
If you’ve been living with discomfort or difficulty due to tori, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with Smiles By Alex in Valencia, CA, and let us help you reclaim your oral health with effective and compassionate care. Tori removal could be the step you need to enjoy better-fitting dentures and a higher quality of life.
