Mandibular tori are common, benign bony growths on the inner surface of the lower jaw, typically near the premolars. While generally harmless, they can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with oral functions. Many individuals discover them during routine dental examinations.
Understanding Mandibular Tori
Mandibular tori appear as smooth, hard bumps on the tongue-facing side of the lower jaw. They are most frequently found near the premolar teeth and above the attachment point of the mylohyoid muscle. Approximately 90% of cases involve symmetrical growths on both sides of the mouth, though their sizes may differ.
These growths can vary considerably in size and shape, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. They may present as single nodules or multiple nodules that can sometimes fuse together. The tissue covering the tori can sometimes appear less pink than the surrounding mouth tissue because it is stretched thin over the bone.
Factors Contributing to Mandibular Tori
The exact cause of mandibular tori is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to their development. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, as these growths often run in families; studies suggest a strong genetic component. Local stress on the jaw and teeth is also a major contributing factor.
Conditions such as bruxism, which involves habitual teeth grinding or clenching, can place constant pressure and strain on the jawbone, potentially stimulating the growth of bone tissue. Mandibular tori tend to grow slowly over time, often becoming noticeable in early adulthood, and their size can fluctuate throughout life.
When Mandibular Tori Cause Issues
Mandibular tori are frequently asymptomatic. However, when they grow large enough, they can lead to issues affecting daily oral function. One common problem is interference with the fitting or stability of dental prosthetics, such as dentures or mouthguards.
Large tori can also make eating or speaking uncomfortable by restricting tongue movement. Food particles may become trapped around the growths, making oral hygiene more challenging and potentially increasing the risk of plaque buildup and gum issues. Additionally, the thin tissue covering the tori can be susceptible to trauma from chewing or sharp foods, leading to irritation, inflammation, or slow-healing ulcers.
Options for Mandibular Tori
In most instances, mandibular tori do not require treatment. Dental professionals monitor their size and shape during routine check-ups. However, if the tori begin to cause persistent discomfort, interfere with dental prosthetics, or lead to recurrent trauma or oral hygiene difficulties, surgical removal may be considered.
The surgical procedure to remove mandibular tori, known as a torectomy, is a routine oral surgery often performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, small incisions are made in the gum tissue around the tori, and the excess bone is carefully removed using dental drills or chisels. In some cases, a laser may be used for less invasive removal, which can lead to faster healing times.
Following surgery, patients can expect some swelling and discomfort for the first few days, managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. A soft diet is recommended for several days to allow the gums to heal. Recovery typically involves a few days of rest, with most pain subsiding within a week; full recovery can take two weeks to a month. While generally safe, potential complications include bleeding, infection, and the possibility of the tori regrowing, especially if underlying factors like bruxism are not addressed.