What often leads to the complication of "trismus" following local anesthesia administration?

Trismus, the restricted ability to open the mouth due to muscle spasms or inflammation, can often arise from improper technique during the injection of local anesthetics. When an injection is performed incorrectly, it may result in trauma to surrounding tissues, including muscles such as the medial pterygoid and masseter. This trauma can cause pain and inflammation, which in turn may limit the range of motion in the jaw, leading to trismus.

Additionally, improper technique can also include issues like needle placement in a nerve sheath or administering the anesthetic too deep into the muscle, further contributing to muscle complications. It’s crucial to have a sound understanding of anatomical landmarks and proper injection methods to mitigate the risk of such complications. Proper technique ensures the anesthetic is delivered effectively and safely, minimizing the chances of adverse reactions like trismus.