@article{FOMM119319,
author = {Lorraynne dos Santos Lara and Alexandre Pena Corrêa Bittencourt and Mike dos Reis Bueno and Luiz Evaristo Ricci Volpato},
title = {Palatal marginal alveolar exostosis: a narrative review of a scarcely explored condition},
journal = {Frontiers of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine},
volume = {8},
number = {0},
year = {2026},
keywords = {},
abstract = {Background and Objective: Palatal marginal alveolar exostosis (PMAE) is a benign bony protuberance located on the palatal surface of the posterior maxillary alveolar processes, with an etiology that remains unclear. Although generally asymptomatic, PMAEs may cause discomfort, mucosal ulceration, prosthetic instability, and difficulties during surgical procedures. Despite their potential to interfere with clinical and surgical management, this condition is often overlooked and underdiagnosed in dental practice. This study aimed to deepen the understanding of PMAE by addressing its morphological features, anatomical location, histological aspects, and clinical implications.Methods: A narrative review of the scientific literature was conducted, synthesizing data on the prevalence, morphology, bone quality, and clinical applications of PMAE. To this end, a bibliographic search was conducted on September 12, 2025, using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, including academic studies published in English or eligible for translation into English. The included articles ranged from 1972 to 2025.Key Content and Findings: Available studies reveal wide variations in prevalence, ranging from 14.1% to 77.97%, likely due to different methodologies used for detection. Morphologically, PMAEs are classified into five types: small nodules, large nodules, sharp ridges, spine-like projections, and combinations of these patterns. The most common presentation is bilateral small nodules in the molar region. PMAEs display favorable bone quality, composed of mature cortical and trabecular bone, which makes them potential donor sites for autogenous bone grafting in alveolar augmentation, implant, or periodontal surgeries.Conclusions: Although not a direct pathological risk, recognition and a deeper understanding of this anatomical variation contribute to more accurate differential diagnoses and more predictable clinical outcomes. There is a need for robust studies to further investigate its etiology, natural history, and confirm its potential as a donor site for bone grafting in oral surgery.},
issn = {2664-777X}, url = {https://fomm.amegroups.org/article/view/119319}
}