While trismus is not widespread in the population, it’s sometimes commonly seen in certain groups, particularly in those who:

• Have had oral surgery to remove their wisdom tooth

• Have had head and neck cancer in a region involving structures that influence jaw movement

• Have undergone surgery or trauma around the head and neck

How long does it last?

In most cases, trismus is temporary and resolves within around 1–2 weeks. However, in some cases, it can take longer to resolve and may even become permanent if left untreated. Trismus can last longer and could be more resistant to conventional treatment in those who develop fibrous tissue due to radiation therapy.

Treatment options

Trismus is more commonly temporary than permanent. But the earlier you start treatment, the better the chance for a greater recovery. Some treatment options include:

• Use of jaw-stretching device. These devices fit between the upper and lower jaw. A physical therapist will tell you which stretches to perform and how often.

• Medication. Your doctor may recommend or prescribe a muscle relaxant, pain reliever, or anti-inflammatory medication.

• Physical therapy. This typically involves massaging and stretching to help loosen the muscles and decrease pain.

• Dietary changes. Avoiding hard, crunchy foods is often recommended to ease pain until symptoms improve.

Trismus exercises

There are several exercises that can help in relieving trismus by stretching and strengthening the jaw to decrease inflammation and pain. These exercises can be repeated several times throughout the day. Repeated jaw movements in all directions for few seconds, move the jaw left and right. This has to be repeated multiple times in a day. Jaw Massages and heat application can be of help in some cases.

Common causes

Trismus can occur when there’s damage or injury to the muscles of the jaw. This can happen due to trauma, oral surgical procedures, TMJ disorders, mal aligned teeth, stress disorders and bruxism.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will perform a thorough oral exam, specifically looking for signs of oral abnormalities, bone and joint abnormalities, or any other abnormal tissue in your jaw that may lead to trismus. They’ll also:

• Measure how wide you can open your mouth

• Ask about any recent dental treatments or procedures

• Ask about any possible injuries to your jaw — for example, if you were hit in the jaw during a sporting or car accident

• Ask about any history of prior surgery or radiation therapy to your head and neck

• Order imaging studies to help determine whether your trismus is stemming from a problem with your joints or tissues

The takeaway

While trismus can be painful, it’s usually temporary and responds well to both medication and physical therapy.
If you’re having dental surgery or radiation or surgery for head or neck cancer, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of developing the condition.
The earlier you receive treatment, the better the outcome, so don’t hesitate to seek help if you notice any trismus symptoms.