Mundöffnung

Mundöffnung, also known as the oral aperture or mouth opening, refers to the space between the upper and lower teeth or gums when the mouth is open. This opening is crucial for a variety of physiological functions. Its primary role is in the ingestion of food and liquids, allowing them to enter the digestive tract. Furthermore, the degree of mundöffnung is essential for speech production, as the movement of the jaw and tongue within this space shapes the sounds we produce. It also plays a part in respiration, particularly during strenuous activity when nasal breathing may be insufficient.

The mechanics of mundöffnung involve the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull. Muscles of mastication, such as the masseter and temporalis, facilitate the elevation and depression of the mandible, controlling the extent of the opening. Various factors can influence the normal range of mundöffnung, including age, genetics, and dental health. Conditions affecting the TMJ or jaw muscles can lead to restricted or excessive opening, potentially causing pain or functional impairments. Assessment of mundöffnung is a common part of dental and medical examinations.