Trismus

Trismus is a medical condition characterized by the inability to open the mouth fully due to a reduced range of motion in the jaw joint. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infection, and certain medical treatments.

Causes

Trismus can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Trauma: This can include physical injury to the jaw or surrounding tissues, or damage caused by surgical procedures.
• Infection: Infections in the mouth or throat, such as tonsillitis or peritonsillar abscess, can cause trismus.
• Medical treatments: Certain medical treatments, such as radiation therapy for head and neck cancers, can cause trismus as a side effect.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of trismus is the inability to open the mouth fully. This can make it difficult to eat, speak, or maintain oral hygiene. Other symptoms can include:

• Pain in the jaw or surrounding muscles
• Difficulty swallowing
• Changes in speech

Treatment

Treatment for trismus depends on the underlying cause. This can include:

• Physical therapy: This can help to improve the range of motion in the jaw.
• Medication: Pain relievers and muscle relaxants can help to alleviate symptoms.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

See also

• Lockjaw
• Temporomandibular joint disorder

Trismus Resources
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