Trismus

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Trismus
File:Lockjawsymptoms.jpg
Synonyms	Lockjaw
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Reduced ability to open the mouth
Complications	Malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia
Onset	Sudden or gradual
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Tetanus, pericoronitis, oral submucous fibrosis, trauma, infection
Risks	Oral surgery, radiation therapy, head and neck cancer
Diagnosis	Physical examination, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	Temporomandibular joint disorder, mumps, sialadenitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Physical therapy, medication, surgery
Medication	Muscle relaxants, analgesics, antibiotics
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in certain conditions
Deaths	N/A

Trismus, commonly referred to as lockjaw, is a condition characterized by reduced ability to open the mouth due to muscle spasm, inflammation, or fibrosis. It is often associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and can be a symptom of various underlying conditions.

Causes

Trismus can result from a variety of causes, including:

• Infection: Such as tetanus, which is a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and leads to muscle stiffness.
• Trauma: Injury to the jaw or surrounding tissues can lead to muscle spasm and trismus.
• Surgery: Post-surgical complications, especially after procedures involving the mouth, jaw, or throat.
• Radiation therapy: Treatment for head and neck cancers can lead to fibrosis and trismus.
• Inflammation: Conditions such as pericoronitis or arthritis affecting the jaw joint.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of trismus is the inability to fully open the mouth. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain in the jaw or surrounding areas
• Difficulty speaking or eating
• Muscle stiffness
• Headache

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of trismus involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Imaging studies such as X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be used to assess the underlying cause. A dental examination may also be necessary to evaluate the condition of the teeth and jaw.

Treatment

Treatment of trismus depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve jaw mobility.
• Medication: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to release the muscle spasm or correct structural issues.
• Botulinum toxin injections: To reduce muscle spasm.

Prevention

Preventive measures for trismus include:

• Maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent infections.
• Regular dental check-ups.
• Avoiding trauma to the jaw.
• Following post-operative care instructions after dental or surgical procedures.

See also

• Temporomandibular joint disorder
• Tetanus
• Pericoronitis
• Arthritis