Tori are benign (non-cancerous) bony growths that develop in the mouth.
These growths, also known as exostoses, are generally harmless but can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with dental procedures. They are most commonly found in two locations:
- Torus Mandibularis: Located on the tongue side (lingual) of the lower jaw, usually near the premolars. They often appear as bilateral (on both sides) symmetrical bumps.
- Torus Palatinus: Located on the midline of the hard palate (roof of the mouth). They can vary in size and shape, from small bumps to large, lobulated masses.
Here's a breakdown of key characteristics:
- Nature: Benign bony growths (exostoses).
- Location: Primarily in the mouth:
- Torus Mandibularis: Lower jaw, tongue side.
- Torus Palatinus: Hard palate.
- Symptoms: Usually asymptomatic (no symptoms). Larger tori may:
- Interfere with speech or swallowing.
- Make denture fitting difficult.
- Be prone to ulceration due to trauma.
- Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but genetics and environmental factors are thought to play a role. They often develop gradually over time.
- Treatment: Treatment is usually not required unless the tori are causing problems. In such cases, surgical removal may be considered.
In summary, tori are harmless bony growths in the mouth that typically require no treatment unless they cause discomfort or interfere with oral function.