Dental tori are benign bony growths that develop in the oral cavity, commonly on the lower jaw (mandibular tori) or the roof of the mouth (palatal tori). While they are usually harmless, they can sometimes interfere with oral functions, denture fitting, or cause discomfort, necessitating surgical removal.
Understanding the correct dental code for tori removal is crucial for accurate billing and insurance claims. This article provides an in-depth look at tori, the reasons for their removal, the surgical process, and the relevant Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes used by dentists and oral surgeons.
Dental Code to Remove Tori
2. What Are Tori in Dentistry?
Tori (singular: torus) are bony protrusions that form along the jawbone or palate. They are made of dense cortical bone and grow slowly over time. While their exact cause is unknown, factors such as genetics, bite stress, and bone overgrowth may contribute to their development.
Key Characteristics of Tori:
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Non-cancerous and painless (unless irritated)
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Vary in size (from small bumps to large growths)
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More common in adults (typically appearing after age 30)
3. Types of Tori: Mandibular vs. Palatal
| Type of Torus | Location | Prevalence | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandibular Tori | Inside the lower jaw (near premolars) | More common | May interfere with tongue movement or dentures |
| Palatal Tori | Midline of the hard palate | Less common | Can affect speech or cause food trapping |
4. Reasons for Tori Removal
While not all tori require removal, some cases necessitate surgical intervention due to:
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Denture discomfort (tori prevent proper denture fitting)
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Speech or eating difficulties
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Recurrent trauma or ulceration
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Orthodontic or prosthodontic treatment needs
5. Diagnosis and Evaluation Before Surgery
Before removal, dentists perform:
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Clinical examination (visual and palpation)
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X-rays or CBCT scans (to assess bone structure)
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Biopsy (if malignancy is suspected—rare)
6. Dental Codes for Tori Removal (CDT Codes)
The American Dental Association (ADA) assigns specific CDT codes for tori removal procedures.
| Procedure | CDT Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tori Removal – Mandibular | D7471 | Excision of benign bony growth (mandible) |
| Tori Removal – Palatal | D7472 | Excision of benign bony growth (palate) |
| Bone Recontouring | D7953 | Additional smoothing of bone post-removal |
Note: Insurance coverage varies—check with providers for eligibility.
7. Surgical Techniques for Tori Removal
A. Traditional Surgical Removal
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Local anesthesia (sometimes sedation)
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Scalpel or laser incision
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Bone reduction using burs or chisels
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Sutures to close the wound
B. Laser-Assisted Removal
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Less bleeding and faster healing
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Precise bone contouring
C. Piezosurgery (Ultrasonic Bone Cutting)
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Minimal trauma to soft tissues
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Ideal for delicate cases
8. Recovery and Post-Operative Care
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First 24 Hours: Ice packs, soft diet, avoid spicy foods
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1-2 Weeks: Swelling subsides, stitches dissolve
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Full Healing: 4-6 weeks (bone remodeling completes)
9. Potential Risks and Complications
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Infection (rare, preventable with antibiotics)
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Nerve damage (temporary numbness)
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Excessive bleeding (controlled with proper technique)
10. Cost and Insurance Coverage for Tori Removal
| Factor | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Without Insurance | $600 – $3,000 |
| With Dental Insurance | $200 – $1,000 (after coverage) |
Depends on complexity, anesthesia type, and geographic location.
11. FAQs About Tori Removal
Q1: Is tori removal painful?
A: No—local anesthesia ensures a painless procedure. Mild discomfort may occur post-op.
Q2: Can tori grow back after removal?
A: Recurrence is rare but possible if underlying causes (e.g., bruxism) persist.
Q3: How long does the procedure take?
A: Typically 30-90 minutes, depending on size and location.
Q4: Are there non-surgical treatments for tori?
A: No—surgical removal is the only effective treatment.
12. Conclusion
Dental tori removal is a straightforward procedure with high success rates when performed by an experienced oral surgeon. Proper dental coding (D7471, D7472) ensures accurate billing, while post-operative care guarantees smooth recovery. If tori interfere with oral function, consulting a dentist for evaluation is recommended.
