Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
trismus
Pronunciation: TRIZ-mus
Limited mouth opening, often following oral surgery or trauma.
Full Definition
Trismus refers to restricted mouth opening, typically defined as an interincisal opening of less than 35-40mm in adults. This condition can result from muscle spasm, fibrosis, mechanical obstruction, or inflammation following oral surgery, infection, or trauma. Management may include physical therapy, medications, or surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with tetanus, which may cause similar symptoms but has a different etiology.
In Context
- "The patient developed trismus following third molar extraction." — post-operative assessment
- "Trismus persisted despite anti-inflammatory medication and physiotherapy." — follow-up note
Also known as
lockjaw
restricted mouth opening
Don't confuse with
tetanus
TMJ disorder