The enigma of limited mouth opening: Implications for the clinician and practice

Limited mouth opening (LMO) is a clinical condition that may be relatively commonly encountered in a dental practice. This condition may negatively affect the quality of life and pose a diagnostic challenge for the clinician. It may have a local, systemic, or combined etiology.

The authors searched electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Ovid MEDLINE, Google Scholar) for articles focused on the various aspects of LMO and its possible causes, prevention, and management protocols.

LMO is a multifactorial condition with congenital and acquired etiologies, involving intracapsular, extracapsular, and musculoskeletal structures. Contributing factors include trauma, systemic diseases, neoplasm, and medication-related conditions. Acute LMO was commonly associated with pain, inflammation, or muscle guarding, whereas chronic LMO was more frequently linked to irreversible changes such as fibrosis, ossification, or persistent muscle spasms, resulting in functional limitation.

This article offers a structured, etiology-based framework for assessment and management of LMO, highlighting the importance of early recognition and treatment to prevent long-term complications and improve the quality of life of patients. LMO requires an interdisciplinary approach depending on the underlying etiology. Early diagnosis and conservative management are critical in preventing progression to irreversible LMO and reducing the need for more aggressive therapies. Multiple therapeutic modalities and long-term follow-up play an essential role in restoring and maintaining mandibular function.