What term describes painful muscle contractions affecting the muscles of mastication?

Trismus refers to a condition characterized by a limited ability to open the mouth, often due to painful muscle contractions in the muscles of mastication. These contractions can lead to stiffness and discomfort, making it difficult for individuals to perform actions such as chewing or speaking. The muscles involved in mastication, including the masseter and temporalis, can become tense or spastic, contributing to this painful restriction.

In contrast, attrition is the term used to describe the wear and tear on teeth caused by grinding or chewing, rather than muscle contractions. Bruxism, while related to grinding of the teeth, specifically refers to the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, which can occur during sleep or while awake, but it does not necessarily imply painful muscle contractions. Subluxation generally refers to a partial dislocation of a joint, which does not specifically pertain to muscle contractions related to mastication.

Thus, trismus is the accurate term that encapsulates the symptoms described in the question, highlighting its association with painful muscle contractions in the context of dental and oral health.