How is laterotrusion movement classified during the evaluation of jaw motion?

Laterotrusion refers to the lateral movement of the jaw that occurs while the chin moves towards one side. This motion primarily involves the shifting of the lower jaw away from the midline, typically measured horizontally. It is crucial in assessing the coordination and function of the temporomandibular joint.

When considering jaw movements, understanding that laterotrusion is fundamentally a side-to-side, or horizontal, action helps clinicians evaluate the range of motion and potential dysfunctions in TMJ disorders. While vertical motion pertains to movements up and down, and rotational motion relates to the pivoting of the jaw around a point, laterotrusion is distinctly characterized by its horizontal trajectory. Diagonal motion, on the other hand, would imply a combination of both vertical and horizontal aspects, which does not accurately describe the specific lateral movement being evaluated. Hence, classifying laterotrusion as horizontal motion aligns with anatomical and functional definitions related to jaw movement.