The term tetanus can also be referred to as lockjaw which is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. The tightening of the jaw muscles is one of the major symptoms of lockjaw, which will eventually make the jaw hard to function, in turn making speech and swallowing very difficult. If left untreated, lockjaw can even lead to death. However, it is not very often that this happens as various vaccinations are employed for tetanus. Hence, vaccination through Tetanus Toxoid will prevent the infection from cuts from old fences or dirty metal objects is always considered a safer option.

News about lockjaw first broke when it was found out to be more prevalent around horses that were thought to be injured by cuts and wounds,. Horses are considered as a more frequent victims of tetanus. However, Clostridium tetani is found to be in huge sums in soil all over the world. It has the ability to sustain and survive for about 40 years. Hence, lockjaw causes are clearly considered possible as a result of a cut developing from an old nail.

Both TMJ Lockjaw and Lockjaw incidents are constantly reported high in third world countries where inoculations or vaccinations are not routine or frequent. It is in these countries that many newborns, as many as half of the population are the ones affected who cannot afford the cost of vaccination and do not learn to adhere to standards of hygiene and cleanliness. Exposure to tetanus in these countries is mainly owed to the lack of proper care of the umbilical cord stump as Clostridium tetani infects it.

The death rate for lockjaw is quite a significant one when left untreated taking down almost 30% of the adults and 60% of the infants. Neurotoxin plays a vital role in making tetanus for its treachous nature. The jaw isn't the only part affected as the disease takes its toll on all the facial muscles once it is contracted and eventually progresses. Painless paralysis is also a possibility as a result of a stiff created over the back, stomach, and lower body as these parts also can be affected. Tetany is a side effect of the illness as it causes many violent seizures or muscle spasms. People experienceing tetany will find the disease as extremely painful.