Introduction
mandibular tori removal are bony growths that appear along the inside of the lower jaw, near the tongue. While they are generally harmless, they can sometimes cause discomfort, interfere with oral functions, or complicate dental treatments. In such cases, mandibular tori removal may become necessary.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about mandibular tori, the reasons for their removal, surgical techniques, recovery expectations, and potential complications.
What Are Mandibular Tori?
Mandibular tori (singular: torus mandibularis) are benign bony outgrowths that form on the inner surface of the mandible (lower jawbone). They are usually hard, painless, and covered by normal oral tissue.
Key Characteristics of Mandibular Tori:
- They often appear bilaterally (on both sides of the jaw).
- The size may vary from small nodules to large protrusions.
- Growth is slow and progressive.
- They are non-cancerous and usually asymptomatic.
Causes of Mandibular Tori
The exact cause of mandibular tori is not fully understood, but research suggests that they may develop due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Possible Causes Include:
- Genetics – A hereditary tendency plays a significant role, as tori often run in families.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) – Chronic grinding and clenching increase pressure on the jawbone, stimulating bone growth.
- Dietary Factors – Diets high in vitamin D, calcium, or fish protein may contribute.
- Occlusal Stress – Uneven bite pressure or misaligned teeth can trigger bone remodeling.
- Other Contributing Factors – Age, ethnicity, and certain systemic conditions may increase susceptibility.
Symptoms of Mandibular Tori
In many cases, mandibular tori do not cause symptoms and are only discovered during routine dental exams. However, in some individuals, they may lead to discomfort or oral complications.
Common Symptoms:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Irritation of the overlying tissue due to trauma
- Problems with speech (especially with large tori)
- Interference with dental prosthetics like dentures
- Food trapping and poor oral hygiene around the growth
When Is Mandibular Tori Removal Necessary?
Not every case of mandibular tori requires surgical intervention. Many people live with tori without issues. However, removal is recommended in specific circumstances.
Indications for Removal:
- Interference with Dentures or Dental Work – Tori can prevent dentures from fitting properly or obstruct orthodontic treatment.
- Chronic Irritation or Ulceration – If the overlying mucosa frequently becomes sore, removal may be necessary.
- Difficulty Eating or Speaking – Large tori can hinder normal oral functions.
- Suspicion of Pathology – Though rare, removal may be done if there is concern about abnormal tissue growth.
- Pre-Surgical Requirement – Some oral surgeries may require tori removal to create space.
Pre-Surgical Considerations
Before undergoing mandibular tori removal, the oral surgeon will perform a detailed evaluation.
Steps in Pre-Surgical Planning:
- Medical and Dental History Review – To check for systemic conditions that may complicate surgery.
- Clinical Examination – Assessment of size, location, and symmetry of the tori.
- Radiographic Imaging – Panoramic X-rays or CBCT scans may be used to assess bone structure.
- Discussion of Risks and Benefits – The patient is informed about the procedure, alternatives, and possible complications.
Mandibular Tori Removal Procedure
Mandibular tori removal is a relatively straightforward oral surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the complexity and patient preference.
Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Anesthesia Administration – To ensure patient comfort.
- Incision – A surgical incision is made in the gum tissue covering the tori.
- Flap Reflection – The gum tissue is carefully lifted to expose the bony growth.
- Bone Removal – The tori are reduced or removed using a surgical drill, bur, or chisel.
- Bone Smoothing (Alveoloplasty) – The bone is reshaped to create a smooth contour.
- Wound Closure – The gum tissue is repositioned and sutured.
The entire procedure usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size and number of tori.
Recovery After Mandibular Tori Removal
Recovery plays a vital role in the success of the procedure. Healing generally takes 2 to 4 weeks, although full bone remodeling may take several months.
Post-Surgical Symptoms:
- Swelling and mild bruising in the jaw area
- Pain or discomfort (manageable with prescribed medications)
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully
- Temporary numbness in the surgical site
Post-Operative Care Instructions:
- Pain Management – Use prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Cold Compress – Apply ice packs for the first 24–48 hours to minimize swelling.
- Dietary Modifications – Stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days.
- Oral Hygiene – Avoid brushing the surgical site; use a prescribed mouth rinse.
- Rest and Recovery – Avoid strenuous activities during the healing period.
- Follow-Up Visits – Attend scheduled appointments to monitor healing.
Risks and Complications of Mandibular Tori Removal
While mandibular tori removal is generally safe, as with any surgery, certain risks exist.
Potential Complications:
- Infection – Rare but possible if aftercare instructions are not followed.
- Excessive Bleeding – Usually controlled during surgery.
- Delayed Healing – Can occur in patients with diabetes or compromised immunity.
- Nerve Damage – Temporary or permanent numbness may occur due to proximity to nerves.
- Recurrence – In rare cases, tori may regrow over time.
Alternatives to Mandibular Tori Removal
Not all patients require surgery. In some cases, non-surgical management may be sufficient.
Alternatives Include:
- Protective Mouthguards – Prevent irritation from chewing or grinding.
- Prosthetic Adjustments – Dentures can be modified to accommodate the tori.
- Observation – If the tori are asymptomatic, monitoring may be the best approach.
Cost of Mandibular Tori Removal
The cost of mandibular tori removal varies depending on several factors, such as:
- Geographic location
- Experience of the oral surgeon
- Complexity of the case
- Type of anesthesia used
- Insurance coverage
Average Cost Range:
- Without insurance: $500 – $2,500 per procedure
- With insurance: May be partially or fully covered if deemed medically necessary
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is mandibular tori removal painful?
The surgery itself is painless due to anesthesia, but mild pain and swelling can be expected during recovery.
2. Can mandibular tori grow back after removal?
Yes, in rare cases, they may recur if the underlying causes persist.
3. How long does recovery take?
Initial healing takes about 2–4 weeks, but complete recovery may take a few months.
4. Can mandibular tori turn into cancer?
No, mandibular tori are benign and not precancerous.
5. Is surgery necessary for all cases?
No, only symptomatic or problematic cases require removal.
Final Thoughts
Mandibular tori are harmless bony growths that often go unnoticed. However, when they cause discomfort, interfere with speech, eating, or dental work, mandibular tori removal becomes a practical solution. The procedure is safe, effective, and provides long-term relief when performed by an experienced oral surgeon.
If you suspect you have mandibular tori, consult your dentist or oral surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right care, you can achieve better oral comfort, function, and overall dental health.
