Dental tori are benign bony growths that can form in the mouth. While many individuals may have these growths without being aware of their presence, they are a relatively common occurrence. These oral structures are typically harmless, though their existence can sometimes lead to questions or concerns for those who discover them.
What are Dental Tori?
Dental tori are slow-growing bony protuberances that arise from the jawbone. They are firm, smooth lumps covered by normal gum tissue. These growths can vary significantly in size and shape, appearing as single bumps or multiple, lobulated formations.
There are two primary classifications based on their location. Torus palatinus refers to a bony growth found on the roof of the mouth, specifically along the midline of the hard palate. This type is more common in women and occurs in approximately 20% of the U.S. population. The other type, torus mandibularis, appears on the inner side of the lower jaw, beneath the tongue. Mandibular tori can occur on one or both sides of the mouth, with about 80% of cases being bilateral.
Why Do Dental Tori Form?
The exact reasons for dental tori formation are not fully understood, but current research suggests a combination of factors contributes to their development. Genetic predisposition is considered a significant influence, as tori often run in families, with studies indicating a strong inherited link.
Excessive chewing forces or teeth grinding, known as bruxism, are also believed to contribute to tori formation. The constant pressure and strain on the jawbone from these habits may stimulate additional bone growth. Some theories also suggest that factors such as mouth anatomy, bone density, and even certain dietary habits, like high fish consumption, might have an impact.
When Do Dental Tori Become a Concern?
For most individuals, dental tori remain asymptomatic and typically do not require any intervention. However, these bony growths can become problematic in specific circumstances.
One common issue arises when tori interfere with the fabrication or proper fit of dental prosthetics, such as dentures. The presence of tori can make it challenging for dentures to sit securely, leading to discomfort or instability.
Additionally, large tori can lead to chronic irritation or ulceration if they are frequently scraped by food or during oral hygiene practices. In some cases, significantly sized tori may impede normal tongue movement, potentially causing speech difficulties or affecting chewing and swallowing. Tori can also complicate routine oral hygiene, making it harder to clean around the affected areas, which can increase the risk of plaque accumulation and gum issues.
Managing Dental Tori
Management of dental tori is typically conservative, with treatment reserved for cases causing functional problems or significant discomfort. Small, asymptomatic tori are usually monitored during routine check-ups.
When necessary, the primary treatment is surgical removal, also known as exostosis removal. This outpatient procedure involves excising the excess bony growth and smoothing the underlying bone. Local anesthesia is typically used for patient comfort. The decision for surgical removal is made in consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon, who assesses the tori’s size, location, and impact on oral health and function. Recovery involves a healing period, with most pain subsiding within about a week.