1. Locating the Maxillary Tuberosity
The term tuberosity refers to a knot or knobby-like protrusion that juts out from the end of a bone allowing for muscle or tendon attachment. You have various tuberosities around your body, but a tuberosity reduction most commonly refers to the tuberosity located in the back of upper part of your mouth. Find your tuberosity by moving your tongue to the area just behind your last upper molars. When you feel a bony protrusion, you've located the maxillary tuberosity.
2. Cumbersome Tuberosities
Generally, the tuberosity doesn't cause problems; however, it may become troublesome if you've lost the teeth on your upper jaw. The problem occurs when the tuberosity descends below the rest of your gum line. When this happens, it becomes difficult to form the tight seal required for dentures securely attach to the jaw and roof of the mouth.
3. Surgical Preparations
Before commencing with the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon may take x-rays of your mouth. Typically, they'll request panoramic radiographs or x-rays, to determine the location of the maxillary sinus. This also helps the surgeon to differentiate the bony areas from the fibrous areas. In addition, a prosthodontist may create a plastic mold of your jaw.
4. Reducing the Maxillary Tuberosity
Tuberosity reduction is a procedure performed by an oral surgeon, although a dentist may assist. On the day of the procedure, you'll receive a local anesthetic. The doctor may also use an IV to administer drugs for sedation. During the procedure, the doctor removes the soft tissue and possibly some bone around the maxillary tuberosity. This leaves more vertical space, towards the back of the mouth. After removal of the bone and tissue, the surgeon stitches up the area. Expect the procedure to last for approximately 1 hour.
5. Care for Yourself After Surgery
In the weeks following surgery, take any medications prescribed by the doctor. This may include a round of antibiotics, used to prevent infection from developing. Expect to experience some swelling in the area around the incision. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding eating and rinsing your mouth. Perforation of the maxillary sinus is the most common complication of maxillary tuberosity reduction. If you have excessive blood coming from your nose after the procedure or you feel air coming from your nose into your mouth, it may indicate perforation of the sinus or loose stitches. Call your doctor immediately.
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