Elongated mandibular coronoid process as a cause of mandibular hypomobility.

There are multiple factors in cases of mandibular hypomobility. One of these factors is elongated coronoid process. Two cases are presented to illustrate elongated coronoid process leading to mandibular hypomobility to help prevent misdiagnosis by clinicians. Coronoid process elongation is a rare condition. Both cases reported here had pulpitis on the teeth, however endodontic treatment could not be performed due to the restricted mouth opening in both cases. There were clinical findings of restricted range of motion, especially during protrusive movements. The restrictive movements did not cause pain for either patient, and the patients were not aware of their restricted mouth opening. Panoromic radiographs were taken and evaluated. The radiographs showed elongated coronoid process bilaterally. Three-dimensional computerized tomography was taken in one case only, due to the patient's financial restrictions. In cases of restricted mandibular opening, elongated coronoid process must be considered when diagnosing the cause.