Understanding Excess Bone Growth and Why Removal Matters

Excess bone formation in the mouth, known as tori or exostoses, can interfere with both oral function and dental prosthetics. Whether you’re preparing for dentures, implants, or simply experiencing discomfort due to hard bony areas under your gums, Excess Bone Reduction is often the essential first step to improving oral comfort and function.

At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, we specialize in the surgical reduction of excess bone to prepare your mouth for optimal health and long-term restoration success. This procedure is also referred to as alveoplasty, particularly when performed after a tooth extraction or in preparation for a dental prosthesis.

What Is Excess Bone Reduction?

Excess bone reduction is a minor surgical procedure that involves reshaping or removing overgrown bone structures in the mouth. Commonly found on the inner side of the lower jaw (mandibular tori) or roof of the mouth (palatal tori), these bone growths can:

• Create discomfort with eating or speaking
• Interfere with denture fitting
• Obstruct proper dental imaging or surgical planning
• Affect oral hygiene practices

The procedure may include tori/exostoses removal and/or alveoplasty, depending on your specific oral anatomy and treatment goals.

When Is Bone Reduction Needed?

Our doctors may recommend this procedure in situations such as:

• Denture or implant preparation – Ensuring a flat, even surface for secure prosthetic placement
• Post-extraction alveoplasty – Smoothing bone ridges after extractions for quicker healing and better restorative outcomes
• Oral discomfort – Reducing hard tissue that causes chronic irritation to the tongue or cheeks
• Speech or chewing difficulties – Improving function by removing obtrusive bony growths

This service is often a key component of pre-prosthetic surgery, tooth extractions, or dental implant placement.

Advanced Surgical Care in Houston, TX

Led by Dr. Mack Coker and Dr. Daniel Ho, our team uses state-of-the-art tools to make bone reduction as precise and comfortable as possible. With a commitment to minimally invasive care, we incorporate:

• 3D Cone Beam CT Imaging for precise planning of the bone structure
• Laser-assisted techniques to reduce tissue trauma and speed up healing
• Collaboration with top centers, including MD Anderson, for thorough pathology screening when needed

Visit our full list of oral surgery services for additional procedures that may complement your treatment.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Depending on your individual case, we may perform this procedure under local anesthesia, with the option for sedation and sleep dentistry to ensure complete comfort.

1. Initial evaluation with diagnostic imaging
2. Treatment planning based on your prosthetic or surgical goals
3. Bone reshaping/removal using precision tools and laser technology
4. Post-operative care, including instructions to promote fast healing

Recovery time is typically minimal, especially with our advanced surgical techniques. If you’re undergoing dental implants or gum disease treatment, this procedure is often performed as part of a larger treatment plan.

Why Choose North Houston Periodontics for Bone Reduction?

At our Houston office, we’re known for our gentle, patient-centered approach to oral surgery. Patients from Champion Forest, Kleinwood, Greenwood Forest, and Memorial Northwest trust our experienced team for:

• Specialized care in alveoplasty and bone reshaping
• Seamless coordination with bone grafting and implant dentistry
• Exceptional comfort, safety, and surgical precision
• Personalized consultation with either Dr. Coker or Dr. Ho

Our goal is to make every patient feel informed, safe, and confident — whether you’re here for a standalone procedure or part of a full-mouth rehabilitation.

FAQs About Excess Bone Reduction

How do I know if I need excess bone reduction?
If you’ve been told that your denture won’t fit properly, or you experience hard lumps in your mouth that cause irritation or interfere with speaking or chewing, you may be a candidate. Our team can confirm with a comprehensive exam and imaging.

Is the procedure painful?
Most patients report very little discomfort. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, and we offer sedation options if needed. Recovery is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter medications.

Is bone reduction covered by insurance?
It can be, especially when medically necessary for implant preparation or denture fitting. Our team can assist you with verifying benefits and navigating insurance paperwork.

How long does recovery take?
Initial healing generally takes 1–2 weeks, with complete bone remodeling over several months. You’ll receive specific aftercare instructions during your visit.

Can this be done along with other procedures?
Yes. Bone reduction is often combined with tooth extractions, socket bone grafting, or implant placement for comprehensive care.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing discomfort from bone growths or preparing for dentures or implants, North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants can help. Call our office at (281) 444-4704 or contact us online to request a personalized consultation with Dr. Mack Coker or Dr. Daniel Ho. We proudly serve patients across Houston, Champion Forest, Kleinwood, Greenwood Forest, and Memorial Northwest.