Trismus among Preclinical Students in a Medical College: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

INTRODUCTION: Trismus is a condition of reduced mouth opening due to tonic constrictions of the muscles of mastication. Trismus greatly affects health-related quality of life and thus daily life activities. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of trismus among preclinical students in a medical college at a tertiary care teaching hospital. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a medical college from 10 July 2021 to 10 December 2021 for a period of five months. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Research Committee (Reference number: 0311202004). A total of 315 preclinical students studying at a medical college were included in the current study. Convenience sampling method was used. Point estimate and 99% Confidence Interval were calculated. RESULTS: Among 315 students, trismus was seen in 14 (4.44%) (1.45-7.43, 95% Confidence Interval). The clicking sound on the right side of the temporomandibular joint was found to be in 6 (42.86%), on the left side was 5 (35.71%) and that of both sides of the temporomandibular joint was 1 (7.14%) among the 14 students with trismus. The mean maximal interincisal mouth opening was found to be 33.4±0.46 mm in students having trismus. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of trismus was found to be similar to the other studies performed in similar settings among preclinical students in a medical college. Awareness on mouth opening exercises and timely management can help reduce trismus.