Torus palatinus in Icelandic schoolchildren

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Oral Biology
• Human Anatomy

Background:

• Torus palatinus is a common bony growth on the palate.
• Its prevalence and etiological factors are not fully understood, particularly in isolated populations.
• Previous studies suggest potential genetic and environmental influences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of torus palatinus in schoolchildren from two distinct regions of Northeast Iceland.
• To identify factors influencing torus palatinus occurrence, including age, sex, and geographic location.
• To explore potential associations between torus palatinus and torus mandibularis.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 987 schoolchildren (489 males, 487 females) in South- and North-Thingeyjarsýsla, Iceland.
• Clinical examination was performed to record the presence and estimate the size of torus palatinus.
• Statistical analyses were used to compare prevalence rates and identify influencing factors.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant difference in torus palatinus prevalence was observed between South-Thingeyjarsýsla (33.3%) and North-Thingeyjarsýsla (14.6%).
• Prevalence and size were significantly associated with age and population group, but not with sex.
• No significant association was found between the presence of torus palatinus and torus mandibularis.

Conclusions:

• Geographic location and age are significant factors in torus palatinus prevalence in Icelandic schoolchildren.
• The observed secular changes and population-specific variations suggest a strong influence of environmental etiological factors.
• Torus palatinus's value as a distinct racial trait is diminished due to the identified environmental influences.