what is tori in the mouth

2 min read 27-12-2024

Introduction:

Oral tori are bony growths that develop in the mouth, most commonly on the hard palate (the roof of your mouth) or the lingual surface (the side facing your tongue) of the mandible (lower jaw). Understanding what causes these benign growths, their appearance, and treatment options is key to managing any concerns. This article provides a comprehensive overview of oral tori.

Types of Tori

There are two main types of oral tori:

1. Palatine Tori

Location: These bony outgrowths appear on the midline of the hard palate (roof of the mouth).
Appearance: They can vary significantly in size and shape, ranging from small, barely noticeable bumps to large, lobulated masses. They are usually symmetrical.
Symptoms: Palatine tori are typically asymptomatic, meaning they don't cause pain or discomfort. However, large tori may interfere with the fit of dentures.

2. Mandibular Tori

Location: These bony growths develop on the lingual aspect (tongue side) of the mandible, usually near the premolar and molar teeth.
Appearance: Similar to palatine tori, mandibular tori can range in size and shape, often appearing as multiple nodules or a single, continuous ridge.
Symptoms: Like palatine tori, they are usually painless. However, large mandibular tori can also cause discomfort or interfere with the fit of dentures.

What Causes Oral Tori?

The exact cause of oral tori is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Genetics: A strong hereditary component is implicated; families often show a higher incidence of tori.
Mechanical Stress: Some researchers believe chronic stress on the bone from activities like chewing or clenching teeth may play a role.
Age: Tori are more common in adults, with prevalence increasing with age.
Gender: Men seem to develop mandibular tori more often than women. For palatine tori, the gender difference is less clear.

Symptoms and Complications

As mentioned earlier, most oral tori are asymptomatic. However, potential problems include:

Denture Interference: Large tori can significantly affect the fit and function of dentures, requiring adjustments or specialized fabrication.
Trauma: Though rare, a large tori can be traumatized by accidental biting or injury.
Cosmetic Concerns: Some individuals may be concerned about the appearance of their tori.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing oral tori is typically straightforward through a clinical examination. A dentist or oral surgeon will visually inspect the mouth and feel the bony growths. Radiographs (X-rays) might be used to assess the size and extent of the tori, especially when planning for denture fabrication.

Treatment Options

Treatment is generally only necessary if the tori cause functional problems (like denture fit) or significant cosmetic concerns. Options include:

Surgical Removal: This is the most common treatment for symptomatic tori. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and involves removing the bony growth.
Observation: If the tori are asymptomatic and don't interfere with daily activities, no treatment is needed. Regular monitoring is sufficient.

When to See a Dentist

Consult your dentist if you notice a new growth in your mouth, experience pain or discomfort, or if your tori are interfering with the fit of your dentures. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent complications.

Conclusion

Oral tori are common, benign bony growths in the mouth. While usually asymptomatic and requiring no treatment, larger tori can create problems with dentures or cause cosmetic concerns. Understanding their characteristics and available treatment options can help individuals address any concerns related to oral tori. Regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection and management of any oral health issues.