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Maximal Mouth Opening in Infants: A Single-Group Prospective Cohort Study

Hanie Ahmadi1, Mohamed El-Rabbany2, Ryan Shargo3

  • 1Research Assistant, Department of Oral Biology and Center for Molecular Microbiology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, FL.

Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery : Official Journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
|February 9, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Maximal mouth opening (MMO) in infants increases with age, offering crucial data for diagnosing jaw mobility disorders. This study establishes normal MMO ranges for infants under 12 months, aiding early detection of temporomandibular joint conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Craniofacial Development
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Background:

  • Detecting variations in infant mandibular range of motion can lead to early diagnosis of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathologies.
  • Establishing normative data for infant jaw mobility is essential for identifying developmental or pathological abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the normal ranges for maximal mouth opening (MMO) in healthy infants under 12 months of age.
  • To provide reference values for infant MMO to aid in clinical assessments.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective cohort study of 151 healthy infants under 12 months was conducted.
  • Maximal mouth opening (MMO) was measured using digital calipers or from gingival margins in infants with erupted incisors.
  • Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between age and MMO.

Main Results:

  • The mean MMO in infants was 32.1 mm, significantly increasing with age at a rate of approximately 1 mm per month.
  • Mean MMO ranged from 22.0 mm in neonates (<1 month) to 36.7 mm in 11-month-old infants.
  • No significant association was found between MMO and sex, race, or gestational age.

Conclusions:

  • This study provides valuable normative data on the association between age and MMO in infants.
  • These findings can assist clinicians in assessing infants for potential jaw mobility disorders and TMJ conditions.
  • Understanding normal MMO progression is critical for early detection and management of pediatric craniofacial abnormalities.
Abstract

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