Exostosis
Pronunciation: eks-os-TOH-sis
A benign bony overgrowth projecting from the surface of the jaw, commonly encountered as torus palatinus or torus mandibularis.
Full Definition
Exostosis (plural: exostoses) refers to a benign, localised outgrowth of cortical bone from the alveolar ridge or jaw surface. In the oral surgery context, common forms include torus palatinus (palate midline), torus mandibularis (lingual surface of the mandible), and buccal exostoses along the alveolar ridges. Although generally asymptomatic, exostoses may require surgical removal before prosthetic fitting or implant placement. Editors should note the irregular plural form 'exostoses' and not confuse the term with 'enostosis', which is an inward bone growth.
Usage
Usage note: Plural is 'exostoses', not 'exostosises'. Do not confuse with 'enostosis'. 'Torus' and 'exostosis' are related but not interchangeable in clinical records.
In Context
- "Bilateral buccal exostoses were noted along the maxillary alveolar ridge and were excised prior to denture construction." — Operative Report
- "The referral letter incorrectly used 'exostosis' in the plural without amendment to 'exostoses'." — Editorial Correction Note