Trismus, or lockjaw, refers to restricted jaw movement that makes opening your mouth difficult or even painful. Normally, you should be able to open your mouth about 35 to 50 millimetres, which is roughly the width of three fingers stacked together.
People with trismus often find their range of motion is severely reduced, affecting simple tasks like eating or speaking. The condition affects the muscles that control the jaw, known as the mastication muscles.
Trismus isn’t a disease itself; it’s a symptom of an underlying issue, and it can occur suddenly or develop gradually, depending on the cause.
Is Trismus A Medical Or Dental Condition?
Trismus can stem from both medical and dental issues. Dentists frequently see it after dental procedures like extractions or infections, while doctors may diagnose it as part of broader medical conditions.
Dentally related trismus often occurs after wisdom tooth removal, jaw infections, or trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Medically, it can be linked to conditions like tetanus, head injuries, or specific nerve and muscle disorders.
Regardless of the origin, addressing the root cause is critical to improving jaw function and relieving pain.
What Causes Trismus?
Trismus disease can result from various dental, medical, and trauma-related factors. Some of the most common lockjaw causes include:
Dental Procedures:
- Wisdom tooth extractions, particularly in the lower jaw
- Oral surgeries or procedures that require your mouth to be open for a prolonged time
Infections:
- Dental infections or abscesses
- Infections in the soft tissues of the mouth or face
TMJ Disorders:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or arthritis can restrict jaw movement
Trauma or Injury:
- A blow to the jaw, fractures, or dislocation
- Muscle strains or sprains from excessive clenching
Tetanus:
- A bacterial infection that affects the muscles, causing severe lockjaw
- Tetanus vaccinations have made this rare in many countries
Radiation Therapy:
- Cancer treatments in the head or neck region may lead to scarring or muscle stiffness
Nerve Disorders:
- Conditions like stroke or nerve damage can disrupt jaw muscle control
By understanding what causes trismus, you can seek treatment quickly and prevent complications.
Symptoms Of Trismus
The primary symptom of trismus is restricted jaw movement. However, the condition often comes with other symptoms that affect daily life. Here’s what to watch for:
- Inability to Open the Mouth Fully: The most noticeable sign is difficulty opening your mouth wide.
- Jaw Pain or Stiffness: Muscles around the jaw may feel tight, tender, or painful.
- Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Eating becomes challenging when jaw movement is limited.
- Headaches or Ear Pain: Tension in the jaw muscles can radiate to the head or ears.
- Facial Swelling: Swelling near the jawline or face can accompany infections or trauma.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care right away. Early intervention can help restore movement and prevent worsening discomfort.
How Long Does Trismus Last?
The duration of trismus depends on its cause and severity. For some, the condition resolves within days with proper care. For others, it may last weeks or require ongoing treatment.
- Mild Cases: Often resolve within a week, especially if caused by muscle strain or minor dental procedures.
- Moderate to Severe Cases: Infections, trauma, or TMJ disorders may take weeks to treat. Recovery often involves physical therapy or targeted interventions.
- Chronic Cases: Long-term issues like TMJ arthritis or radiation-induced trismus may require ongoing management.
Timely treatment plays a big role in how quickly you recover, so don’t ignore persistent symptoms.
How Is Trismus Treated?
The right treatment for trismus depends on what’s causing it. A dentist or medical professional will assess the condition and recommend a plan that may include:
Pain Management:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications help reduce discomfort and swelling.
Warm Compresses:
- Applying heat to the jaw muscles can ease stiffness and promote blood flow.
Jaw Exercises:
- Gentle stretching exercises help improve range of motion and strengthen jaw muscles.
Dental Treatments:
- If a dental infection or issue is the cause, treatments like drainage, antibiotics, or tooth extractions may be needed.
Muscle Relaxants:
- Prescribed medications can help relax tight jaw muscles.
Surgery:
- In rare cases, surgical interventions may be required to repair damaged tissues or joints.
- For people recovering from radiation therapy, physical therapy and specialized exercises are often key to managing trismus.
Can Trismus Be Prevented?
While you can’t always prevent trismus, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing it:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent infections that can cause restricted jaw movement.
- Follow Post-Procedure Instructions: After dental work, follow your dentist’s advice to minimize muscle strain or complications.
- Avoid Jaw Trauma: Wear protective gear during sports and avoid habits like teeth clenching or grinding.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine visits allow your dentist to detect and treat issues early.
- Stretch and Relax the Jaw: Gentle exercises can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness, especially after prolonged of the mouth.
By being proactive, you can lower your chances of experiencing lockjaw.
When Should You See A Dentist?
If you’re dealing with restricted jaw movement, pain, or swelling, don’t wait to seek help. Trismus can worsen without treatment, leading to more discomfort and complications.
Signs you should see a dentist include:
- Pain that doesn’t improve after a few days
- Difficulty eating, speaking, or opening your mouth
- Swelling or infection in the jaw or face
Your dentist will determine the cause of your trismus and provide the right treatment to get your jaw moving comfortably again.
Take Action To Relieve Your Jaw Pain
Trismus can affect your daily life in big ways, but it doesn’t have to be a long-term problem. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments, you can take steps to find relief.
If you’re experiencing lockjaw, discomfort, or restricted jaw movement, Li Family Dental is here to help. Give us a call at 416-232-2033 or request an appointment by clicking here.