Temporalis

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The Temporalis 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:

• Bones of the temporal fossa to the mandible.
  • The mandibular attachment is onto the coronoid process and ramus of the mandible.

ACTIONS:

• Elevates the mandible at the TMJs.
• Retracts the mandible at the TMJs.

NOTES:

1. The masseter and medial pterygoid also elevate the mandible.
2. The temporalis is often involved with tension headaches.