Trismus

Persistent, involuntary restriction in the ability to open the mouth due to spasm or sustained contraction of the muscles of mastication, resulting in limited jaw movement.

Causes

• Infectious causes

  • Tetanus

  • Pericoronitis

  • Dental abscess

  • Tonsillitis

  • Peritonsillar abscess

  • Salivary gland infection

• Dental and procedural causes

  • Dental surgery

  • Local oral trauma

  • Post-procedural inflammation

• Traumatic and structural causes

  • Jawbone fracture

  • Cheekbone fracture

  • Temporomandibular joint injury

• Temporomandibular joint disorder

• Radiotherapy involving the head and neck region

• Neuromuscular disorders affecting masticatory muscles

• Fibrosis or scarring of oral tissues