Mandibular Tori Removal: Surgical Options & Recovery

What Are Mandibular Tori?

Tori are benign, slow-growing bony protrusions on the lingual (tongue-side) surface of the mandible. They are common, often bilateral, and usually asymptomatic unless they interfere with dentures, oral hygiene, speech, or trauma.

Treatment Options

Observation is appropriate for small, asymptomatic tori. Removal is indicated for:

  • Denture fabrication/wear
  • Recurrent ulceration/trauma
  • Periodontal compromise
  • Patient preference

Surgical Techniques

MethodDescriptionBest ForRecovery
Surgical Excision (Scalpel/Periosteal Elevator)Full-thickness flap, bone removal with burs/osteotomes, primary closure.Large tori; definitive removal7–14 days
ElectrosurgeryHigh-frequency current cuts/coagulates; less bleeding.Small to medium tori5–7 days
Laser (Er:YAG, CO₂)Precise ablation; minimal thermal damage.Hard-to-reach areas; bloodless field5–7 days
Burring (Rotary Instrument)Conservative reduction under irrigation.Small tori; minimal invasion3–5 days

Postoperative Care

  • Soft diet, avoid trauma to site
  • Chlorhexidine rinses 2×/day
  • Analgesics (NSAIDs ± opioid PRN)
  • Suture removal (if non-resorbable) at 7–10 days

Recurrence

Low if periosteum is completely removed; higher if only reduced. Discuss expectations with your oral surgeon.

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