Dental exostosis, also known as buccal exostosis or mandibular exostosis, is a benign bony growth that protrudes outward from the surface of the jawbone, typically along the outer surface of the maxilla (upper jaw) or mandible (lower jaw). These bony protrusions are covered by gum tissue and can vary in size and shape.

Here are some key points about dental exostosis:

1. Appearance: Dental exostosis appears as smooth, rounded, or irregular bony outgrowths on the outer surface of the jawbone, near the roots of the teeth. They may occur unilaterally (on one side of the jaw) or bilaterally (on both sides) and can be solitary or multiple.
2. Causes: The exact cause of dental exostosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Chronic irritation or mechanical stress to the jawbone, such as from teeth clenching or grinding (bruxism), may contribute to the development of exostoses.
3. Prevalence: Dental exostosis is relatively uncommon but can occur in individuals of any age or ethnicity. It may be more prevalent in certain populations or ethnic groups, but overall prevalence rates are not well-documented.
4. Symptoms: In many cases, dental exostosis does not cause any symptoms and is discovered incidentally during routine dental exams or radiographic imaging. However, larger exostoses may cause discomfort, difficulty with oral hygiene, or aesthetic concerns, particularly if they interfere with the placement of dental prostheses or appliances.
5. Treatment: Dental exostosis typically does not require treatment unless it causes significant symptoms or functional impairment. In such cases, surgical removal of the exostosis may be recommended. However, because exostoses are benign and tend to grow slowly, treatment is usually only considered if necessary for symptomatic relief or to facilitate dental procedures.
6. Prognosis: The prognosis for individuals with dental exostosis is generally good. Surgical removal of exostoses is usually successful and does not typically result in recurrence. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with anesthesia, infection, and postoperative complications that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

In summary, dental exostosis is a benign bony growth that protrudes outward from the surface of the jawbone. While it often does not cause any symptoms and may not require treatment, individuals experiencing discomfort or functional impairment should consult a dentist or oral surgeon for evaluation and appropriate management options.