Tori removal, a type of oral surgery, often causes anxiety about pain. Tori are benign, slow-growing bony growths found on the lower jaw (mandibular tori) or the roof of the mouth (palatal tori). Although generally harmless, they require removal if they interfere with normal functions like speaking or chewing, or prevent the proper fitting of dental appliances. Modern surgical techniques and pain management protocols ensure that while the process involves discomfort, sharp pain is effectively controlled throughout the experience.
Managing Discomfort During the Procedure
Tori removal is performed under local anesthesia, which is the primary method for eliminating pain during surgery. An injectable anesthetic, such as Lidocaine, fully numbs the surgical area, blocking nerve signals so you will not feel sharp pain as the surgeon removes the excess bone tissue. While pain is absent, patients still experience sensations like pressure, vibration, and significant noise from instruments like high-speed burs. These sensations can be unsettling but do not signify pain. The surgeon may supplement the initial anesthetic dose during longer procedures to maintain comfort.
Immediate Post-Operative Pain Expectations
The most intense period of discomfort begins after the local anesthetic fully wears off, typically within two to six hours following the procedure. This immediate post-operative phase is when pain will peak, usually within the first 24 to 48 hours. The sensation is generally described as moderate discomfort, similar to the soreness following a tooth extraction.
Pain management protocols focus on controlling this acute phase using a combination of medications. Surgeons recommend beginning with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, as they reduce inflammation, a major source of post-operative discomfort. Acetaminophen can be alternated with ibuprofen for comprehensive pain relief, a strategy known as combination therapy. If pain is not adequately managed by over-the-counter options, a prescription for a stronger pain reliever may be provided. Applying an ice pack to the outside of the face for the first 24 to 48 hours also helps manage swelling and the associated throbbing discomfort.
Recovery and Long-Term Discomfort Management
After the first 48 hours, the pain and swelling should begin a noticeable decline as the acute inflammatory response subsides. Swelling is often most pronounced in the morning but can be managed by keeping the head elevated and continuing cold compresses for the initial two days. After the initial swelling subsides, moist heat may be recommended to help resolve any residual puffiness.
A soft food diet is necessary during the healing process to prevent irritation and re-injury of the surgical site. Avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods prevents physical trauma to the healing tissue. Initial comfort is usually restored within a week, with most of the pain subsiding within this timeframe. Full soft tissue healing and return to normal activities typically takes about one to two weeks. Complete bone remodeling and full recovery can take four to six weeks or longer, depending on the size of the original tori. Persistent, excessive bleeding after 48 hours, uncontrolled pain, or the development of a fever warrant immediate contact with your surgeon, as these may indicate a complication.