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What Is Torus Palatinus?

Andy Josiah
Andy Josiah

The torus palatinus, or palatinus torus, is a type of bony growth or protrusion at the roof of the mouth, or palate. More specifically, it appears at the mid-line of this part of the mouth. Although it is far from a life-threatening condition, more serious cases might require medical attention. It is called tori palatinus, or palatal tori, in plural form.

Usually, this growth has a diameter of about 0.79 inches (2 cm), although it can be bigger since it tends to grow, albeit slowly. It feels smooth and can be knob-shaped or broad and flat, and it can vary in size, from a tiny nodule or spindle to a massive bump. In some instances, tori palatinus combine to form a growth similar to a tumor, but in other cases, it occurs as a singular growth. The variance in size and shape has led medical researchers to classify torus palatinus using these attributes.

The torus palatinus is a bony growth on the roof of the mouth.
The torus palatinus is a bony growth on the roof of the mouth.

Medical research has shown that the growths are more common in females than in males. They are also more common in Native Americans, Asians, and Inuit Eskimos than in any other racial or ethnic group. In the United States, it occurs in about 1/4 to 1/3 of the population. The condition usually appears during the early years of adulthood, with the possibility of growing in size. The growth, however, shrinks as one grows older, due to the reabsorption of the bones.

While palatial tori are not usually painful, larger growths may cause pain if they are irritated or injured.
While palatial tori are not usually painful, larger growths may cause pain if they are irritated or injured.

The cause of torus palatinus is yet to be determined, but some researchers believe that it could be the result of genetics. Although palatial tori are generally not painful, bigger ones have a possibility of presenting irritation. Also, if injured, the protrusion could become painful with the development of ulcers, as well as be slow to heal due to lack of an efficient number of blood vessels. This condition can cause difficulty in eating and drinking, which is a major symptom of the problem.

The appearance of torus palatinus can interfere with the placement of dentures.
The appearance of torus palatinus can interfere with the placement of dentures.

The appearance of tori palatinus can also interfere with the placement of dentures, and infection could spread to the bone or palate itself. In such cases, which also include pain and ulceration, the patient would need to see a medical professional. Surgery is the standard treatment, and it usually involves removal of a certain amount of bone in the palate. Prognosis for patients after surgery is generally excellent, with no known major complications.

Discussion Comments

anon982327

I had two pal torus removed. They are painful and affected my sinuses on my right side. I had trouble eating, swallowing, taking pills. I had many time waking from lying on my back choking on my saliva.

I was told for years by doctors that torus doesn't hurt and they don't affect your sinuses. Well, I paid to have it removed finally and the insurance wouldn't cover the cost. I can breathe and eat and no longer choke on my saliva. I have pictures of them before they were removed.

I am writing this because I don't like reading that they don't hurt. Mine did and I was brushed off by the medical field for 15 years of unnecessary pain.

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    • The torus palatinus is a bony growth on the roof of the mouth.
      By: Martha Kosthorst
      The torus palatinus is a bony growth on the roof of the mouth.
    • While palatial tori are not usually painful, larger growths may cause pain if they are irritated or injured.
      By: WavebreakmediaMicro
      While palatial tori are not usually painful, larger growths may cause pain if they are irritated or injured.
    • The appearance of torus palatinus can interfere with the placement of dentures.
      By: Bartkowski
      The appearance of torus palatinus can interfere with the placement of dentures.
    • Torus palatinus is more common in Asians and Native Americans.
      By: arekmalang
      Torus palatinus is more common in Asians and Native Americans.
    • The torus palatinus is a type of bony growth or protrusion at the hard palate.
      By: stockshoppe
      The torus palatinus is a type of bony growth or protrusion at the hard palate.