Tori removal may not be the most glamorous procedure, but it’s one that demands skill, patience, and careful preparation. In this episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, host Dr. Grant Stucki welcomes Dr. Richard Akin, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Baton Rouge, to explore the nuances of managing these challenging cases. Dr. Akin reflects on lessons learned from early practice with his father, the unique anatomy and patient factors that complicate these cases, and the importance of knowing when removal is truly indicated. He shares practical techniques for both maxillary and mandibular tori, from flap design to instrument choice. Dr. Akin also discusses the realities of insurance coverage and billing, and how reimbursement rarely reflects the complexity of the work. Along the way, he emphasizes patient communication, setting realistic expectations for recovery, and taking the time needed to avoid complications. Tune in to hear insights that can help you refine your approach and set patients up for better outcomes!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An introduction to Dr. Richard Akin, an OMS in Baton Rouge.
• Dr. Akin’s early training with his father and transition into solo practice.
• Why tori removal remains a core responsibility of oral surgeons.
• Indications for removal, from hygiene challenges to painful ulcers.
• Preparing patients for recovery and setting realistic expectations.
• Step-by-step techniques for removing maxillary and mandibular tori.
• Managing thin tissue, closure difficulties, and post-op care.
• Instrument choices that make tori removal safer and more efficient.
• Strategies to minimize tearing and ensure proper healing.
• Recognizing rare complications such as flap necrosis.
• Why suturing technique and flap care are critical to healing.
• Dr. Akin’s range of patient stories, from food entrapment to denture challenges.
• Typical healing timelines and patient resilience after surgery.
• Insurance coverage and billing realities for tori removal cases.
• Dr. Akin’s favorite books, hobbies, and daily practices.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Richard Akin — https://www.drakin.com/
Dr. Richard Akin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-akin-644aa932/

Dr. Richard Akin email — rick@drakin.com
Dr. Richard Akin Powerpoint — 

7 Goldman-Fox Knife — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/7-goldman-fox-knife

1/2 Orban DE Knife, EverEdge™ — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/1-2-orban-periodontal-knife-0

Forceps to extract tooth number five — 

Hearts in Atlantis — https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-in-Atlantis-Stephen-King-audiobook/dp/B0000547DG

Surrender — https://www.amazon.com/Surrender-40-Songs-One-Story/dp/B09ZK1XJ4X

Hidden Potential — https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Potential-Science-Achieving-Greater/dp/0593653149

The Overstory — https://www.amazon.com/Overstory-Novel-Richard-Powers/dp/039335668X

Breaking Bad — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903747/

Better Call Saul —