Sometimes we receive patients in our dental clinic in Murcia who are worried because a lump has suddenly appeared in the oral cavity and they fear that it could be indicative of oral cancer.
Once in the consultation room, and after the relevant X-ray to prove it, we realise that they are in fact bony excrescences, i.e. they are made up of bone, and this is commonly known as torus. Of unknown origin and slow growth, they are sometimes located in the middle raphe of the palate or in the inner area of the jaw, although they can also appear near the dental crowns towards the cheek, and sometimes even towards the lips.
Torus, which are benign and rarely malignant, go unnoticed by the patient until they reach a certain size.
However, it is important to note that these lumps, commonly known as torus, are bony outgrowths of unknown origin and slow growth. Although they are sometimes located in the middle raphe of the palate or in the inner area of the jaw, they can also occur near the dental crowns towards the cheek, and sometimes towards the lips.
Torus are benign and rarely malignant, going unnoticed until they reach a certain size. The prevalence of torus is 27 cases per 1000 adults, which would be 2.7% of the population, being more prevalent in females. Although all races are affected, statistically American Indians, Asians and Eskimos are more likely to develop these bone protuberances.
Torus growth is gradual, beginning in adolescence and reaching maturity in later life. The typical form is usually lobulated, multilobulated or united. Although their origin is usually genetic and in many cases unknown, a higher incidence has been observed in patients with clenching or grinding habits known as bruxism. These microtraumas can generate fractures or protective reactions on the part of the bone, leading to the formation of these lumps.
As they are benign, they are not usually removed, but there are situations in which intervention is recommended:
- Problems with prostheses: If the torus hinders the fitting of dentures due to its design or may cause discomfort in the future.
- Dental aesthetics: In cases where torus is visible and affects aesthetics, especially in patients who show a lot of gum when smiling.
- Speech difficulties: If Torus interferes with the ability to speak properly.
- Problems related to dental hygiene: When the lobulated shape of the torus makes dental hygiene difficult, causing food retention and bad breath.
- Spontaneous ulcers: In rare cases, if the torus spontaneously ulcerates due to pressure on thin mucous membranes or friction during eating.
- Malignification: Although exceptional, in cases of malignancy.
The procedure is quite simple (see below for an example) and requires only local anaesthesia, and the postoperative period is fairly straightforward.
At Velez y Lozano, we always recommend seeking out the best professionals who can advise patients based on up-to-date knowledge and use the latest technologies to achieve minimally invasive end results. Taking care of your oral health is our priority!
