The field of veterinary and comparative oral medicine increasingly recognizes the significance of disorders that result in difficulties or pain during mouth opening or closure. These clinical signs, although frequently encountered, are manifestations of a diverse range of underlying conditions, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, retrobulbar disorders, and other craniomaxillofacial diseases.

Despite growing awareness, distinguishing the precise etiology for such symptoms remains a substantial clinical challenge. Many cases are ultimately labeled as ‘pain of unknown origin’, reflecting both the complexity of diagnosis and the lack of universally accepted criteria for several of these conditions. Recent studies point to the need for a more refined diagnostic approach that integrates clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings, as well as a better understanding of the anatomical and pathological bases underlying these presentations.

Research exploring TMJ disorders has highlighted a variety of presentations, such as mandibular pain, reduced range of motion, and behavioral changes including ‘head shyness’ and resistance to eating. Similarly, studies of retrobulbar disorders emphasize the anatomical intricacies involved and the potential for these conditions to be overlooked or misunderstood due to the variability in clinical presentations and overlapping symptomatology. Emerging evidence underscores the importance of multimodal diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, yet standardized protocols and robust comparative studies remain scarce. Ongoing debates also exist regarding the role of imaging techniques, the distinction between idiopathic versus specific pathological causes, and the best practices for long-term management.

This Research Topic aims to advance evidence-based understanding and innovation in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders associated with difficulties in opening or closing the mouth. The intention is to gather scientific contributions that deepen knowledge around etiology, diagnostic challenges, therapeutic interventions, and prognostic indicators. Authors are encouraged to share case studies, original research, and reviews that critically evaluate current diagnostic pathways, novel technologies, and multi-disciplinary management approaches applicable to both veterinary and comparative clinical settings.

This topic encompasses a broad spectrum of disorders affecting the movement and function of the jaw and associated anatomical regions, yet focuses on conditions primarily manifesting as difficulty or pain with jaw opening or closure. Submissions that address differential diagnosis, advances in diagnostic modalities, or new therapeutic options are especially welcomed. To gather further insights in this area, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Etiology and pathophysiology of TMJ disorders and retrobulbar diseases
- Advances in imaging and diagnostic technologies for jaw dysfunction
- Comparative approaches in veterinary and human medicine
- Case studies on ‘pain of unknown origin’ and its management
- Surgical and non-surgical interventions for jaw movement disorders
- Prognostic outcomes and quality-of-life assessments

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Disorders associated with difficulties in opening or closing the mouth