Clinical measurement of maximal mouth opening in children: A pioneer method

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the maximal mouth opening (MMO) in children aged 3 to 5 years from Indian population and to examine the possible influence of age, gender, height and body weight on MMO. Study Design: Assessment of MMO is accomplished with a modified Vernier Caliper by measuring the distance between the incisal edge of upper and lower incisor during maximal mouth opening upto the painless limit. Participants of the study were healthy children selected among regular students from local schools. Age, gender, height and body weight of each child were also recorded at the same time. Results: The results of the present study revealed that MMO in Indian children were 41.61 mm, 44.9 mm and 46.81 mm for boys and 40.09 mm, 44.22 mm and 46.2 mm for girls at age of 3,4 and 5 years respectively. Further significant associations were noted in between age, height, body weight and MMO. However, no gender difference was observed. Conclusion: A definite relationships exist between MMO, age, height and body weight in Indian children with primary dentition.