Maxillary tori (cf. mandibular tori) are common benign outgrowths of bone from the maxilla which may project both inwards or outwards from the alveolar bone. They typically also arise from the hard palate in the midline, in which case they are called tori palatini. They are usually bilateral.
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Clinical presentation
They are usually asymptomatic but may cause issues with eating and drinking.
Pathology
They are composed of compact bone which is densely mineralised and usually without a medullary cavity.
The cause of such bony outgrowths has not been established but a genetic component is thought likely.
Radiographic features
CT
Bony outgrowths can be well appreciated:
- from the alveolar bone (inner or outer)
- from midline hard palate, specifically from the palatine process of the maxilla (inward protrusion into the oral cavity, known as torus palatinus)
Treatment and prognosis
Maxillary tori are benign, slow growing and non-invasive. Removal is required only if they are symptomatic.
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