How is dental trismus treated?

Treatment options

Use of a jaw-stretching device. These devices fit between the upper and lower jaw.
Medication.
Physical therapy that involves massaging and jaw stretching.
A change to a predominately soft-food diet until symptoms improve.

What causes trismus of the jaw?

Trismus, also known as lockjaw, is caused by trauma or injury to the mastication (chewing) muscles. You need your mastication muscles for chewing your food and opening your mouth. Without it, it would be hard to talk, eat, brush your teeth, or swallow.

Can Dental trismus be permanent?

It can occur as a result of trauma to the jaw, oral surgery, infection, cancer, or radiation treatment for cancers of the head and throat. Most cases of trismus are temporary, typically lasting for less than 2 weeks , but some may be permanent.

How long does trismus take to heal?

Trismus tends to improve slowly. Studies suggest treatment may take from 3 to 12 weeks. Early treatment is the best way to prevent more severe problems.

How big is a trismus in the mouth?

Trismus is a painful condition that tends to restrict normal mandibular function and movement. Generally, all conditions which can lead to the inability of opening the mouth within a normal range of 35 to 55 mm (40 mm average) may be addressed as Trismus.

What is trismus and what can be done about it?

Trismus is a problem commonly encountered by the dental practitioner. It has a number of potential causes, and its treatment will depend on the cause. This article discusses the primary causes of this condition and the various treatments available. Trismus is a problem commonly encountered by the dental practitioner.

What causes a person to have trismus in the jaw?

Joint dysfunction can happen due to: According to research studies, up to 11.2 percent of people with TMJD report having difficulty opening their jaw. Tumors that interfere with the function of the jaw itself can lead to trismus. But it more commonly occurs due to radiation of cancer involving the jaw.

What to do if you have trismus in your mouth?

We suggest five minutes every 3-4 hours. Physiotherapy is often suggested for extended periods of time so that the trismus does not get worse or return. Sugarless chewing gum is also beneficial as it encourages lateral movement of the jaw. There are also appliances that can be used to help to slowly open up the mouth.