Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
A patient presents for a removable prosthesis but has an asymptomatic midline lesion on their hard palate that doesn't bother them. What is the proper next step?
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Correct answer: C. Proceed with denture fabrication, designing around the lesion
An asymptomatic torus palatinus (the most common midline hard palate lesion) in a patient who simply needs an RPD can be managed by designing the prosthesis around it — either relieving the denture base over the torus or using a horseshoe/palatal strap design. Surgical removal is only indicated if the torus prevents proper prosthesis fabrication or causes recurrent ulceration from trauma. Biopsy is not needed for a clinically classic torus.
- A. ❌ Immediate referral to an oral surgeon is not warranted for a classic asymptomatic torus.
- B. ❌ Surgical tori removal is only indicated when the torus prevents satisfactory denture fabrication or causes recurrent trauma — not for all cases.
- C. ✅ CORRECT – An asymptomatic torus can be accommodated by designing the prosthesis around it. Surgery is reserved for cases where this is not feasible.
- D. ❌ Biopsy is not indicated for a clinically classic torus palatinus.
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