SCULPTING THE BONE: EXOSTOSIS REVEALED AND RESECTED

Buccal exostosis is a benign, broad-based bony protuberance arising from the cortical plate of the alveolar bone, frequently seen on the facial surface of the maxilla and, less commonly, in the mandible. Although regarded as a benign and often physiologic anatomical variation, it alters normal alveolar bone morphology and may adversely affect periodontal health by hindering optimal plaque control whilst also predisposing the overlying thin gingiva to trauma and localized inflammation.This report delineates the clinical features of two male patients diagnosed with maxillary buccal exostosis. The first case is that of a 45-year-old male, presenting with a hard swelling bilaterallyin the maxillary arch, which was primarily of esthetic concern. A provisional diagnosis of bony exostoses was made based on clinical examination and was subsequently confirmed through transgingival probing. The second case concerned a 35-year-old male exhibiting bilateral maxillary bony overgrowth since two years, which was primarily of esthetic concern. Both patients were systemically healthy and denied any history of deleterious oral habits. Resective osseous surgery was performed in both cases to eliminate the bony protuberances and restore physiological alveolar bone contour. An effective periodontal management of buccal exostosis is essential to facilitate plaque control,enhance esthetic outcomes, and prevent the development of subsequent periodontal complications.