Torus palatinus

Torus Palatinus

Torus palatinus, or palatal torus, refers to a benign bony growth located on the roof of the mouth (the palate). These growths are generally harmless and are subject to variation in size and shape throughout an individual's life.

Overview

Definition

A torus palatinus (plural: tori palatini) is an exostosis or bony protrusion on the palate. They are usually non-cancerous and asymptomatic, often discovered incidentally during dental examinations.

A typical presentation of torus palatinus on the hard palate.

Morphology and Location

Physical Characteristics

Most palatal tori are less than 2 centimeters in diameter, but their size can fluctuate throughout the individual's life.

Position on Palate

Tori palatini are commonly located on the midline of the hard palate. This central location differentiates them from other oral growths that may appear on the sides or back of the mouth.

Etiology and Development

Genetic Factors

The exact cause of torus palatinus is not well understood, but genetic factors are believed to play a significant role.

Environmental Influences

Factors such as local irritation, occlusal stress, and dietary habits have been considered as possible contributing factors to their development.

Clinical Significance

Dental Implications

While often asymptomatic, large palatal tori may interfere with dental devices, such as dentures, and may occasionally require surgical removal.

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination, and management is conservative, with intervention only when symptomatic.

Associated Conditions

Relationship with Oral Health

There is no direct association between tori palatini and oral diseases, but their presence can affect oral hygiene practices due to difficulty cleaning around the growths.

Other Types of Tori

Similar bony growths can be found in other parts of the mouth, such as torus mandibularis, which occurs on the mandible (jawbone).

Treatment and Prognosis

Surgical Intervention

Surgical removal is rarely necessary but can be performed if the torus causes discomfort or hinders dental procedures.

Prognostic Outlook

The prognosis for individuals with torus palatinus is excellent, as they typically do not lead to more serious conditions.

See Also

• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Dentistry
• Maxilla
• Bony exostosis
• Dental prosthetic

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