The Prevalence of Tori among Sudanese students in Khartoum College of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction:- Torus Palatinus and torus mandibularis are bony prominences found in the palate and mandible. They are covered by soft tissue which can be irritated by slight movement of the denture , it affects speech and tongue movement and presents a problem in designing partial dentures. Aim:- The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of torus palatinus and torus mandibularis in Sudanese students of Khartoum college of Medical Sciences. Investigations to determine the relationship between the prevalence of tori with age and gender distribution, as well as their clinical characteristics were carried out. Materials and Methods:- Four hundred and fifty three students were examined in total. The location, extent, and clinical presentation of tori were recorded and related to the age and gender of students. Students were asked about their ethnic group, fish consumption and if any medications were taken in relation to tori. Photos were taken and impressions were made for those who had the anomaly. Results:- The number of females was more than males. The overall prevalence of tori was 40.2 %. The prevalence of torus palatinus was 31.5%, while that of torus mandibularis was significantly lower 29.5 %. Torus palatinus and torus mandibularis were associated with each other in 52% of the cases. Peak prevalence occurred in 19-21 age groups. Females were more affected by both tori than males. The most common shape of torus palatinus was the spindle shape (60 %), medium size (57.5 %) and located in the midline of the palate. The most common shapes of torus mandibularis were lobular (43.4 %), nodular (35.8 %) and of medium size (58.4 %). The majority (92 %) of students ate fish once per week and there was a significant correlation between fish consumption and presence of tori (p<0.005). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of tori with ethnic groups or between males and females. Conclusion:-The prevalence of tori was relatively high in the students of Khartoum College of Medical Sciences and was higher in females than males.There seems to be a strong association between tori and fish consumption. Most individuals in this study were unaware of the presence of tori and did not present clinical symptoms