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The Medial Pterygoid 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
ATTACHMENTS:
- Sphenoid bone to the internal surface of the mandible.
- The mandibular attachment is onto the angle and inferior border of the ramus.
ACTIONS:
- Elevates the mandible at the TMJs.
- Protracts the mandible at the TMJs.
- Contralaterally the mandible at the TMJs.
NOTES:
- The medial pterygoid and masseter form a sling that supports the mandible.
- The medial pterygoid is said to have a deep head and a superficial head. The deep head attaches onto the sphenoid; the superficial head attaches onto the palatine bone and the maxilla.
