The extra bone that can appear in the palate of the mouth is known as torus palatinus.
Understanding Torus Palatinus
Torus palatinus refers to a benign bony growth that develops on the roof of the mouth, specifically on the hard palate. It is a common occurrence, affecting a significant portion of the population, and is generally harmless.
As the provided reference states, a torus (or its plural, tori) is "extra bone that grows inside the mouth within the confines of your jaw and under your gum tissue." When this extra bone manifests on the "roof of your mouth," it is specifically named torus palatinus.
What Causes These Bony Growths?
The exact cause of torus palatinus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial. Key contributing factors often include:
- Genetics: A strong familial predisposition suggests that genetics play a significant role. If your parents or other close relatives have tori, you are more likely to develop them.
- Chewing Stress: Some theories suggest that excessive chewing forces or grinding of teeth (bruxism) can stimulate bone growth in the palate.
- Nutritional Factors: While less confirmed, some research points to a possible link with certain dietary habits or calcium intake.
Characteristics and Appearance
Torus palatinus can vary widely in size and shape from person to person. It may appear as a small, subtle bump or a large, prominent mass. Common descriptions of its appearance include:
- Nodular: Multiple individual bumps.
- Lobular: A single growth with multiple lobes.
- Flat: A broad, flat elevation.
- Spindle-shaped: A ridge running along the midline of the palate.
These growths are typically slow-growing and usually do not cause any pain or discomfort. The overlying gum tissue remains normal in appearance and color.
Torus Palatinus vs. Torus Mandibularis
While torus palatinus appears on the roof of the mouth, another common type of bony growth can occur in the lower jaw. The reference highlights this distinction: "When it appears in your lower jaw, it's called torus mandibularis."
Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Torus Palatinus | Torus Mandibularis |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Roof of the mouth (hard palate) | Inner side of the lower jaw (mandible) |
| Prevalence | Very common, slightly more common in females | Also common, often bilateral (on both sides) |
| Impact | Usually no symptoms, can interfere with dentures | Can interfere with dentures, tongue movement |
When is Treatment Necessary?
In most cases, torus palatinus does not require any treatment because it is a benign condition and typically asymptomatic. Your dentist will usually monitor it during routine check-ups.
However, there are specific situations where surgical removal might be recommended:
- Interference with Dentures: If the torus is large enough to prevent the proper fit and stability of full or partial dentures.
- Speech Impediment: In rare cases, a very large torus might affect speech or pronunciation.
- Food Impaction: If food particles frequently get trapped around the torus, leading to irritation or infection.
- Chronic Ulceration: If the thin gum tissue over the torus frequently gets injured or develops sores due to trauma.
- Rapid Growth: Although rare, any rapid or unusual growth should be evaluated to rule out other conditions.
If removal is necessary, it is a relatively straightforward surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon.
