What clinical presentation might indicate a zygoma fracture?

A zygoma fracture, commonly known as a cheekbone fracture, often presents with noticeable clinical signs, one of which is the flattening of the cheekbone prominence. This flattening occurs due to the fracture disrupting the normal contour of the zygomatic arch and body, leading to a visible change in facial aesthetics.

In cases of zygomatic or midfacial fractures, this clinical sign is highly regarded as an indicative feature, particularly because the zygoma contributes significantly to the facial skeleton's structure. Thus, the prominence of the cheek, which typically gives facial fullness and aesthetic appeal, becomes compromised, leading to a subtle or pronounced flattening.

While the other options list relevant signs that can occur with various maxillofacial fractures, the flattening of the cheekbone is specifically characteristic of a zygoma fracture. Mobile maxilla and paraesthesia around the inferior alveolar nerve location can indicate other types of fractures or injuries, such as involving the maxilla or mandible. Therefore, they are not exclusively associated with zygomatic fractures and make the choice of flattening of the cheekbone prominence the most direct indicator of a zygoma fracture.