Definition, Causes, and Epidemiology of Buccal Exostosis:
- Buccal exostosis is a bony growth on the outer surface of the upper or lower jaw.
- It is commonly caused by chronic irritation or trauma to the oral cavity.
- Other potential causes include genetic factors and certain oral habits.
- The condition is more prevalent in older individuals.
- It can occur in both males and females.
- More common in males than females, occurring in a ratio of about 5:1.
- Strongly associated with the presence of torus mandibularis and torus palatinus.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Buccal Exostosis:
- Buccal exostoses are generally asymptomatic and painless.
- May cause concern about poor aesthetics.
- Difficulty in performing oral hygiene procedures.
- Can lead to compromised periodontal health.
- Most cases of buccal exostosis are asymptomatic.
- In some cases, patients may experience discomfort or pain.
- Diagnosed through clinical examination and radiological interpretation.
- Clinically appear as single, broad-based masses in the premolar and molar region.
- Overlying mucosa appears stretched but intact.
- Radiographically identified as round, well-defined structures.
- Biopsy not usually recommended, except to rule out malignancy.
- X-rays or CT scans can help visualize the bony growth.
- Dentists or oral surgeons are typically involved in the diagnosis process.
Treatment Options and Management of Buccal Exostosis:
- Often do not require treatment and can be monitored with routine dental check-ups.
- Oral hygiene advice given to cleanse above and below the growth with mouthwash.
- Periodontal disease may require treatment.
- Treatment may be required if the growth causes continuous trauma or for aesthetic reasons.
- Surgical removal can be done under local anesthesia.
- Treatment is usually not necessary unless the growth causes symptoms or interferes with oral function.
- If necessary, surgical removal of the buccal exostosis may be recommended.
- The procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon.
- Recovery time after surgery is usually minimal.
- Regular follow-up visits may be required to monitor the area.
- Complications are rare but can include infection or damage to adjacent teeth.
- With proper treatment and care, the prognosis for buccal exostosis is generally good.
- Recurrence of the bony growth is uncommon after surgical removal.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent chronic irritation.
- Avoiding habits that may cause trauma to the oral cavity, such as excessive teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects.
- Regular dental visits for early detection and monitoring.
- Seeking prompt dental care if any symptoms or changes are noticed.
- Following post-operative instructions after surgical removal, if necessary.
Diagnosis and Prognosis of Buccal Exostosis:
- Diagnosed through clinical examination and radiological interpretation.
- Clinically appear as single, broad-based masses in the premolar and molar region.
- Overlying mucosa appears stretched but intact.
- Radiographically identified as round, well-defined structures.
- Biopsy not usually recommended, except to rule out malignancy.
- Complications are rare but can include infection or damage to adjacent teeth.
- With proper treatment and care, the prognosis for buccal exostosis is generally good.
- Recurrence of the bony growth is uncommon after surgical removal.
- Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition.
- Early detection and intervention can help prevent complications.
Prevention and Post-operative Care of Buccal Exostosis:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent chronic irritation.
- Avoiding habits that may cause trauma to the oral cavity, such as excessive teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects.
- Regular dental visits for early detection and monitoring.
- Seeking prompt dental care if any symptoms or changes are noticed.
- Following post-operative instructions after surgical removal, if necessary.
A buccal exostosis is an exostosis (bone prominence) on the buccal surface (cheek side) of the alveolar ridge of the maxilla or mandible. More commonly seen in the maxilla than the mandible, buccal exostoses are considered to be site specific. Existing as asymptomatic bony nodules, buccal exostoses don’t usually present until adult life, and some consider buccal exostoses to be a variation of normal anatomy rather than disease. Bone is thought to become hyperplastic, consisting of mature cortical and trabecular bone with a smooth outer surface. They are less common when compared with mandibular tori.
| Buccal exostosis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Alveolar exostosis |
 | |
| Buccal exostosis along upper left alveolar ridge | |
| Specialty | Oral medicine |
