Which muscle acts to elevate the mandible ?
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Answer: B. Temporalis
Explanation
The temporalis muscle is a powerful fan-shaped elevator of the human mandible. Its vertical fibers contract to pull the lower jaw upward against the upper teeth. It works alongside the masseter and medial pterygoid to close the mouth forcefully. Muscles of mastication are responsible for chewing and grinding food efficiently. The temporalis originates from the temporal fossa and inserts onto the coronoid process. Mandibular elevation is essential for breaking down food particles during digestion.
Hyperactivity of the temporalis muscle frequently contributes to tension headaches and jaw pain. Dentists evaluate jaw closing muscles when diagnosing temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Rehabilitation exercises target these elevator muscles following jaw fracture treatments. The buccinator compresses the cheek against teeth but does not elevate the mandible. The lateral pterygoid muscle acts primarily to depress and protrude the lower jaw. Incorrect terms or fictional muscle names do not participate in mandibular elevation.
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