What Can You Do about Bony Growths in Your Mouth?
Posted on 2/15/2025 by San Tan Oral Surgery |
 Have you ever noticed a hard, bony lump in your mouth? You're not alone. These bony growths, also known as exostoses, are relatively common and can affect people of all ages. While they're usually not painful, they can sometimes cause discomfort, interfere with chewing, or even make it difficult to wear dentures.
What Causes Bony Growths in the Mouth?
The exact cause of bony growths in the mouth is unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development. These include:
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Trauma: An injury to the jawbone, such as a blow to the face, can trigger the formation of an exostosis. |
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Repetitive stress: Repeated pressure on the jawbone, such as from clenching or grinding your teeth, can also lead to bony growths. |
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Genetics: Some people may be predisposed to developing exostoses due to their genetic makeup. |
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Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the mouth, such as from periodontal disease, may also play a role. |
How are Bony Growths Diagnosed?
If you notice a bony growth in your mouth, it's important to see your dentist. They will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the size, location, and extent of the growth. In some cases, they may also order a CT scan for a more detailed look.
Treatment Options for Bony Growths
The treatment for bony growths in the mouth will depend on the size, location, and severity of the growth. In many cases, no treatment is necessary if the growth is small and not causing any problems. However, if the growth is large, causing discomfort, or interfering with function, your dentist may recommend one of the following treatments:
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Observation: If the bony growth is small and not causing any problems, your dentist may simply monitor it over time. |
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Surgical removal: If the growth is large, causing discomfort, or interfering with function, your dentist may recommend surgically removing it. This is a relatively simple procedure that can be performed in the dentist's office under local anesthesia. |
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Smoothing: In some cases, the bony growth may be smoothed down rather than removed completely. This can be done using a bur or laser. |
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Orthodontic treatment: If the bony growth is interfering with the alignment of your teeth, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment to move the teeth into a more favorable position. |
Can Bony Growths Be Prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent bony growths in the mouth, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:
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Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to inflammation. |
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See your dentist for regular checkups: Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and identify any potential problems early. |
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Avoid injuries to the jaw: Wear a mouthguard if you play sports or participate in other activities that could put your jaw at risk of injury. |
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Manage stress: Stress can contribute to clenching or grinding your teeth, which can increase your risk of developing bony growths. |
Restorative Dentistry Options
In some cases, bony growths may require restorative dentistry procedures after removal or smoothing. This may include:
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Dental implants: If the bony growth was located in an area where a tooth is missing, dental implants can be used to replace the missing tooth. |
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Dentures: If the bony growth was located in an area where multiple teeth are missing, dentures can be used to restore the function and appearance of your smile. |
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Crowns or bridges: If the bony growth was located near a healthy tooth, crowns or bridges may be used to protect the tooth and restore its function. |
Conclusion
Bony growths in the mouth are relatively common and can be caused by a variety of factors. While they're usually not painful, they can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with function. If you notice a bony growth in your mouth, it's important to see your dentist so they can determine the best course of treatment. With proper care, most bony growths can be successfully treated and managed.
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