Understanding Oral Exostoses: Benign Bone Growths in Your Mouth

If you've noticed unusual bone growth in your mouth, you're likely experiencing what dental professionals call an exostosis. While the term might sound alarming, these growths are, in most cases, entirely benign and pose no significant health risk. Only in rare circumstances do exostoses interfere with oral function or the placement of dentures, necessitating surgical removal. For the vast majority, diligent oral hygiene is sufficient to maintain a healthy mouth, just as if the exostoses weren't there. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of oral exostoses, covering their types, potential causes, diagnostic methods, and any necessary treatments to ensure you stay informed and smiling. Types and Potential Causes of Oral Exostoses The classification of an exostosis depends on its specific location within the mouth. The most frequently observed bone growths include: Torus palatinus: Found on the roof of the mouth, often appearing as a singular growth. Torus mandibularus: Located beneath the tongue, these tend to be bilateral, meaning they appear on both sides. Buccal exostoses: Less common, these are hard, bony protrusions situated on the outside of the gums. The exact cause (etiology) of these bone growths remains unknown. However, research, including an article in the Journal of International Oral Health, suggests several potential contributing factors. These may include genetic predisposition, environmental influences, excessive chewing (masticatory hyperfunction), teeth grinding (bruxism), and ongoing jawbone growth. Exostoses typically emerge in the late teenage years or early adulthood and often increase in size over time. It's not uncommon for individuals to have these growths for years without even noticing their presence. Diagnosis and Health Considerations Most often, your dental professional will identify an exostosis during a routine checkup. If they observe thickened or protruding bone during their examination, they may document its presence with a photo or by taking measurements to monitor any changes in size over time. Generally, exostoses are considered a normal anatomical variation and do not pose any health concerns. However, some adverse effects can arise, particularly if the growths become large enough to impede the normal functioning of your mouth. For example: A large torus mandibularus might make proper speech difficult. The thin tissue covering bone growths is susceptible to scratches or injuries from sharp foods, which can lead to ulcer formation. All types of exostosis can potentially complicate the placement of dentures if you have missing teeth. Some individuals may opt for removal due to aesthetic concerns. Treatment and Oral Hygiene Practices If an exostosis is among the rare cases where treatment is recommended, it can be surgically removed in a dental professional's office, typically by an oral surgeon. The procedure usually involves: Administering local anesthesia to numb the surgical area. Making an incision and carefully lifting the soft tissue to expose the bony overgrowth. Trimming the bone, usually with a high-speed dental tool. Newer technological advancements, such as dental lasers, are also showing promise for this procedure, as reported by Dentistry Today. Suturing the tissue back into place. Even with an exostosis, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. This includes: Brushing your teeth at least twice daily. Flossing or using interdental brushes or water flossers at least once a day. Incorporating antimicrobial mouthrinses and tongue scrapers into your routine. Attending regular dental cleanings to ensure overall oral health and to allow your dental professional to monitor any bony lumps. Diligently checking for and removing any food particles that might become lodged between the growth and your gums. Consulting your dentist for any personalized recommendations. While the initial discovery of an exostosis might cause apprehension, understanding that these growths are typically harmless can provide significant peace of mind. If you're uncertain about any growth in your mouth, it's always best to seek a professional opinion to rule out more serious conditions. With consistent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, you're likely to enjoy a healthy and confident smile.