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The Masseter is a muscle of mastication that moves the mandible at the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). The primary muscles of mastication are:
- Temporalis
- Masseter
- Lateral Pterygoid
- Medial Pterygoid
The Masseter has two parts: Superficial Layer and Deep Layer.
ATTACHMENTS:
- Zygomatic bone and the zygomatic arch of the temporal bone to the mandible.
- The mandibular attachment is onto the angle, ramus, and coronoid process of the mandible.
ACTIONS:
- Elevates the mandible at the TMJs (entire muscle).
- Protracts the mandible at the TMJs (superficial layer).
- Retracts the mandible at the TMJs (deep layer).
NOTES:
- The masseter and medial pterygoid form a sling that supports the mandible.
- The masseter is often stated to be the strongest muscle in the human body.
