Tori Removal in Mt. Prospect, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett and Chicago, IL: A Patient’s Guide

Tori removal in Mt. Prospect, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett and Chicago, Illinois, is a minor oral surgery that reduces or eliminates bony growths in the mouth so that eating, speaking, and oral hygiene are more comfortable. At Associates For Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery, LTD, patients can receive clear guidance on when surgery is appropriate and what the process involves.

Tori Removal Explained

Tori are extra, benign bone growths that develop along the jaws. Mandibular tori form on the tongue-side of the lower jaw, while a palatal torus occurs on the roof of the mouth. These growths are not tumors and do not turn into cancer. Many people live with small tori without any problems. Removal is considered when the bony areas cause repeated sores, trap food, make speech or oral hygiene difficult, interfere with dentures or aligners, or block the placement of implants or grafts.

Because the surface of a torus can be thin and prone to irritation, even a modest bump may feel sharp or tender. In these cases, mandibular tori removal or palatal torus surgery can create a smoother contour that is easier to clean and more comfortable day to day.

How Tori Removal Can Help You

• Improved comfort by reducing rubbing and ulceration under the tongue or on the palate.
• Better oral hygiene access so plaque and food debris are easier to remove.
• Enhanced fit for dentures, partials, or clear aligners that require stable seating.
• More predictable planning for dental implants and bone grafting procedures.
• Reduced gagging or speech interference when large palatal tori are present.

How Tori Removal Works

The procedure is carefully planned with an exam and, when needed, imaging to assess thickness and shape. Most cases are completed with local anesthesia so the area is fully numb. Some patients choose oral sedation or IV sedation for added relaxation. Your options are reviewed in advance to match your medical history and comfort level.

During surgery, a small incision is made to expose the bone. The excess bone is contoured using surgical instruments to achieve a smooth profile. The site is irrigated, sharp edges are refined, and the gum tissue is repositioned and sutured. The procedure time varies with size and number of tori, but many visits take about 45–90 minutes. Most patients go home the same day with written aftercare instructions.

Common, short-term effects include swelling, bruising, and soreness. As with any oral surgery, there are risks such as temporary numbness, delayed healing, or infection, though these are uncommon with proper care. Our oral surgeons will discuss risks and how they are minimized.

What To Expect Before And After Surgery

Preparing For Your Visit

• Discuss medications, including blood thinners and supplements, in advance.
• Follow fasting instructions if sedation will be used.
• Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home after sedation.
• Stock up on soft, cool foods and any recommended supplies before surgery.

Recovery And Aftercare

• Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief as directed.
• Apply cold packs in intervals for the first 24–48 hours to limit swelling.
• Maintain a soft diet, avoiding hard, sharp, or spicy foods until tenderness subsides.
• Rinse gently with saltwater after 24 hours and keep the area clean as instructed.
• Avoid smoking or vaping to support healing.
• Plan for suture removal or a healing check, usually within 1–2 weeks.

Most people return to regular daily activities within a few days. Soreness improves over the first week, with steady progress in comfort and function. If dentures or aligners are part of your plan, your dentist or orthodontist will advise when to resume fittings after healing.

For more information about tori removal in Mt. Prospect, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett and Chicago, IL, and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Russell P. Spinazze, Dr. Mark A. Spinazze or Dr. Eliza P. Drobny, please call Associates For Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery, LTD and speak with a member of our team.