Masseter muscle

Synonyms

Latin: Masseter muscle
English: masseter muscle

Synergists: Temporalis muscle, medial pterygoid muscle
Antagonists: Digastric muscle

definition

The Masseter muscle (Masseter muscle) is a masseter of the Skeletal muscles and together with the Temporalis muscle and Medial pterygoid muscle responsible for closing the jaw. In addition, the masseter promotes the salivation by the pressure on the Salivary gland (Parotid gland).

course

Approach: anterior 2/3 of the zygomatic arch

Origin: Mandibular bone (Ramus mandibulae; Masseteric tuberosity)

Innervation: Masseteric nerve of Mandibular nerve

function

The masseter muscle closes it jaw and presses the Salivary gland (Parotid gland), which promotes salivation. This makes it an important muscle for chewing.

common illnesses

The masseter plays a role in diseases and malpositions of the Temporomandibular joint such as the craniomandibular dysfunction. You will also find further complaints of the temporomandibular joint here.