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Variation in torus mandibularis prevalence in Norway. A statistical analysis using logistic regression
Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology
|February 1, 1991
Summary
The prevalence of torus mandibularis, a bony growth, is significantly higher in Gudbrandsdal than Lofoten, Norway. Environmental factors like occlusal stress, diet, and tooth count appear to influence torus mandibularis prevalence across different ages and sexes.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Human Anatomy
- Dental Anthropology
Background:
- Torus mandibularis is a common bony exostosis in the mandible.
- Geographical and demographic variations in torus mandibularis prevalence suggest multifactorial etiology.
- Understanding these variations can provide insights into genetic and environmental influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of torus mandibularis in two distinct Norwegian populations.
- To analyze the influence of geographical location, age, and sex on torus mandibularis prevalence.
- To explore potential environmental factors contributing to torus mandibularis variations.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 2010 dental patients aged 10 years and above.
- Comparison of torus mandibularis prevalence between individuals from Lofoten Islands and Gudbrandsdal.
- Statistical analysis to assess differences based on geographical region, age groups (10-49 vs. >50 years), and sex.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher prevalence of torus mandibularis in Gudbrandsdal compared to Lofoten (P < 0.001).
- Reduced prevalence observed in individuals over 50 years of age (P < 0.01) and in women compared to men (P < 0.05).
- Environmental factors, particularly occlusal stress, were estimated to account for approximately 70% of torus variation, with genetics contributing around 30% in Gudbrandsdal.
Conclusions:
- Geographical location, age, and sex are significant factors influencing torus mandibularis prevalence.
- Environmental factors, including occlusal stress, dietary habits, and the number of existing teeth, play a crucial role in torus mandibularis development.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific environmental variables and potential genetic components contributing to sexual dimorphism in torus mandibularis.