Mandibular tori, also known as mandibular exostosis, are bony growths that develop on the lower jawbone, specifically on the lingual surface, which is the inside of the jaw in the lower mouth. This condition is usually harmless, and many people may not even know they have it. However, mandibular tori can cause problems like difficulty fitting dentures, gum irritation, and even infections in rare cases.
What are the Symptoms of Mandibular Tori?
In most cases, mandibular tori do not cause any symptoms, and many people do not know they have them. However, in some cases, these growths can cause discomfort or pain. The most common symptoms of mandibular tori include:
- Bony growths on the inner surface of the lower jawbone
- Difficulty fitting dentures or other oral devices
- Gum irritation and inflammation
- Pain or discomfort when eating or speaking
- In rare cases, infections or ulcers on the surface of the bony growths
What Causes Mandibular Tori?
The exact cause of mandibular tori is unknown, but there are several factors that can contribute to the development of these bony growths. These factors include:
- Genetics – Studies have shown that mandibular tori tend to run in families, so genetic factors may play a role in their development.
- Age – Mandibular tori are more common in older adults, as the bone density in the jaw increases with age.
- Gender – Mandibular tori are more common in men than in women.
- Stress – Chronic stress and tension in the jaw muscles can contribute to the development of mandibular tori.
How is Mandibular Tori Diagnosed?
Mandibular tori can be diagnosed by a dentist or oral surgeon through a physical exam or an X-ray. The growths are usually visible on the lingual surface of the lower jawbone, and they feel hard and bony to the touch. X-rays can provide more detailed information about the size, shape, and location of the tori.
How is Mandibular Tori Treated?
In most cases, treatment for mandibular tori is not necessary, as these growths are usually harmless and do not cause any symptoms. However, if the tori are causing problems like difficulty fitting dentures or gum irritation, there are several treatment options available:
- Oral surgery – The tori can be surgically removed under local anesthesia, which can relieve discomfort and make it easier to fit dentures or other oral devices.
- Dental adjustments – A dentist or orthodontist can adjust the shape of dentures or other oral devices to accommodate the bony growths.
- Oral hygiene – Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help prevent infections and inflammation around the tori.
Can Mandibular Tori Lead to Cancer?
Mandibular tori are benign bony growths and are not cancerous. However, in rare cases, these growths can develop into cancerous tumors, which are known as osteosarcomas. It is important to have any abnormal growths in the mouth or jaw examined by a dentist or oral surgeon to rule out the possibility of cancer.
Can Mandibular Tori Grow Back?
If mandibular tori are surgically removed, they are unlikely to grow back. However, if the underlying factors that contribute to their development are not addressed, new growths may develop over time. In some cases, mandibular tori can also continue to grow after they are removed, which may require additional treatment.
Can Mandibular Tori Cause Headaches or Ear Pain?
Mandibular tori are not known to cause headaches or ear pain. However, chronic stress and tension in the jaw muscles, which can contribute to the development of these growths, can cause headaches and jaw pain. If you are experiencing headaches or jaw pain, it is important to speak with your dentist or doctor to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
How Can Mandibular Tori be Prevented?
There is no known way to prevent the development of mandibular tori, as the underlying factors that contribute to their development are not fully understood. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help identify any abnormal growths in the mouth and jaw early on.
Conclusion
Mandibular tori are bony growths that develop on the inside of the lower jawbone. While these growths are usually harmless, they can cause problems like difficulty fitting dentures and gum irritation. Mandibular tori are more common in older men and tend to run in families. Treatment may be necessary if the growths are causing problems, but in most cases, no treatment is required. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help identify and manage mandibular tori early on to prevent complications.
Common Questions and Answers
-
What is mandibular tori?
Mandibular tori are bony growths that develop on the inside of the lower jawbone. These growths are usually harmless, but they can cause problems like difficulty fitting dentures and gum irritation. -
What are the symptoms of mandibular tori?
The most common symptoms of mandibular tori include bony growths on the inner surface of the lower jawbone, difficulty fitting dentures or other oral devices, gum irritation and inflammation, pain or discomfort when eating or speaking, and, in rare cases, infections or ulcers on the surface of the bony growths. -
How is mandibular tori diagnosed?
Mandibular tori can be diagnosed by a dentist or oral surgeon through a physical exam or an X-ray. -
What causes mandibular tori?
The exact cause of mandibular tori is unknown, but factors like genetics, age, gender, and chronic stress can contribute to their development. -
Can mandibular tori lead to cancer?
Mandibular tori are benign bony growths and are not cancerous. However, in rare cases, these growths can develop into cancerous tumors, which are known as osteosarcomas.
References
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. (2021). Mandibular Tori.
https://www.aaoms.org/docs/practice_resources/clinical_resources/mandibular_tori.pdf - Mayo Clinic. (2019). Torus Mandibularis and Torus Palatinus.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/torus-mandibularis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352867 - National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2019). Mandibular Tori.
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/neck-and-head/more-info/mandibular-tori