Unilateral Coronoid Hypertrophy Causing Restricted Opening of the Mouth

Abstract

Enlargement of the coronoid process of the mandible is a rare cause of restricted jaw movement, and diagnosis of the abnormality may be tardy. The enlarged coronoid process impinges upon the malar bone preventing full opening of the mouth. The condition is usually gradually progressive and is painless. Most cases have been reported in young males. Facial asymmetry is generally present due to enlargement or deformity of the malar bone. The cause of the enlargement in most cases has been reported to be an osteochondroma of the coronoid process.