We often talk about the common oral health problems we address, such as cavities, gum disease, or damaged (and possibly lost) teeth. However, today we’re going to talk about a less common oral health issue known as mandibular tori, which only impacts between 5% and 10% of people in the United States.
Try Our Quiz on Tori
- True or False: Bruxism can lead to tori.
- True or False: They typically have no negative impact on oral health.
- True or False: We can remove them.
- True or False: You should always see us if you notice changes to your oral tissues.
Answer Key
- True. Tori are bony growths that form in the mouth, typically on either side of the midline of the palate in the upper or lower jaw. They can also form on the cheek facing side of the mouth as well. They can be caused by a number of different factors, but bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) is the most common.
- True. They are slow growing and often small enough not to really have an impact on your daily life. However, in some cases they can prevent an oral appliance or orthodontics from fitting properly. Large growths may also lead to difficulty eating or speaking and can develop sores when eating rougher foods, such as certain breads, pizza, or chips.
- True. If they interfere with dental treatment or prevent you from eating or speaking properly, then we can discuss removal options.
- True. If you ever notice growths or sores that don’t heal, always let us know. In some cases, this may not be a sign of tori, but instead an indicator of the presence of oral cancer. Catching the problem early increases the chances of a full recovery. If you have any question or concerns about addressing these bony growths or bruxism, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Mandibular Tori?
We can offer solutions to oral growths and help you enjoy a comfortable and healthy smile. To learn more, schedule an appointment, call Gentle Smiles in Dallas, TX, today at 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE).
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