Trismus

Question

Trismus

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Trismus is a spasm or tightening of the masticatory muscles, which are those responsible for chewing, and is often caused by a disturbance in the trigeminal nerve, which supplies sensation to the face and mouth. This condition can make it difficult to open the mouth fully, like in lockjaw. Grinding or gnashing of the teeth is called bruxism, while grating noise in the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is called crepitus, and vibration or movement of a tooth when in function is called mobility.