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What is the range of horizontal axis rotation when opening the mouth?

  1. 10-15 mm

  2. 20-25 mm

  3. 30-35 mm

  4. 40-45 mm

The correct answer is: 20-25 mm

The range of horizontal axis rotation when opening the mouth is accurately represented by the choice that indicates a range of 20-25 mm. This measurement refers to the amount of movement that occurs at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) during the initial phase of mouth opening, primarily characterized by a hinge-like rotation. As the mandible rotates around the horizontal axis, there is a limited distance it can travel before additional movements, such as translation or further opening, begin to occur. This hinge movement is essential in understanding jaw mechanics and plays a critical role in various dental procedures and assessments. The selected range aligns well with clinical observations and studies, providing essential benchmarks for dental professionals when evaluating a patient's range of motion and identifying any potential disorders or dysfunctions related to the TMJ.