What are Mandibular Tori? Causes and Solutions

Mandibular tori are bony growths that develop in the mouth. Although harmless, these protrusions can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with oral functions. Understanding mandibular tori causes and how to manage them can help you maintain better oral health and address any associated concerns you may have about them.

What Are Mandibular Tori?

Mandibular tori (singular: torus) are benign, slow-growing bone formations that appear along the inside of the mandible (the lower jaw), typically near the premolars. These growths often occur in pairs, though their size, shape and number can vary. Some people barely notice them, while others experience discomfort or challenges with oral hygiene, dental procedures or wearing dentures.

What Are Mandibular Tori Caused By?

While the exact causes of mandibular tori are not fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute:

Genetics

Genetics play a significant role in mandibular tori causes. If your family members have these growths, you are more likely to develop them. Researchers suggest a hereditary predisposition can influence bone density and formation.

Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism)

Chronic clenching or grinding of teeth exerts consistent pressure on the jawbone. Over time, this pressure may stimulate bone growth, contributing to the development of mandibular tori.

Dietary Factors

A diet rich in calcium may contribute to the formation of tori by promoting bone growth. While adequate calcium is essential for strong teeth and bones, an excess might exacerbate these growths in individuals predisposed to them.

Age and Development

Mandibular tori often appear in adulthood, possibly as a response to cumulative stress on the jaw over time. Growth patterns may vary between individuals, with some noticing development earlier or later in life.

Environmental Factors

Beyond genetics and lifestyle, environmental factors such as trauma or chronic irritation to the jawbone may also contribute to mandibular tori causes. For instance, repetitive chewing on one side of the mouth might encourage bone growth on that side.

Are Mandibular Tori Harmful?

In most cases, mandibular tori are harmless and do not require treatment. However, they can occasionally cause issues, including:

• Irritation: Protruding tori may rub against soft tissues, causing discomfort or ulcers.
• Interference with Dental Work: Dental impressions, x-rays, or prosthetics like dentures can become challenging if tori obstruct access to the jaw.
• Oral Hygiene Concerns: The uneven surface of tori may trap food particles or plaque, increasing the risk of gum disease or cavities.
  

How Are Mandibular Tori Diagnosed?

Mandibular tori are typically discovered during routine dental examinations. Your dentist may confirm the diagnosis through visual inspection or imaging techniques like x-rays. In most cases, no additional testing is needed unless your dentist suspects other underlying conditions.

Solutions for Managing Mandibular Tori

While mandibular tori generally don’t require intervention, there are several ways to manage discomfort or complications:

Improved Oral Hygiene

Pay close attention to cleaning around the tori to prevent food build-up and plaque accumulation. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can help maintain oral health.

Address Bruxism

If grinding or clenching contributes to mandibular tori causes, wearing a custom night guard can reduce jaw pressure and potentially slow further growth.

Denture Adjustments

If you wear dentures and experience discomfort due to tori, consult your dentist about adjusting or reshaping the dentures to accommodate these growths.

Surgical Removal

In rare cases, surgical removal may be recommended. This is typically only necessary if the tori interfere significantly with oral function, cause persistent irritation, or obstruct necessary dental treatments. The procedure involves smoothing or removing the excess bone under local or general anaesthesia.

Prevention and Lifestyle Changes

While you cannot prevent mandibular tori entirely, you can take steps to minimise their impact:

• Manage Stress: Reducing stress can help prevent teeth grinding, which is a known contributor to mandibular tori.
• Monitor Diet: Maintaining a balanced calcium intake is essential – neither too low nor excessive.
• Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups ensure early detection and management of any issues related to mandibular tori.
  

Living with Mandibular Tori

Mandibular tori may seem unusual, but they’re a relatively common condition that often goes unnoticed. If you have them, it’s essential to stay vigilant about oral health and communicate openly with your dentist about any discomfort or concerns.