Masseter muscle

Masseter Muscle is a thick, rectangular muscle of mastication. It is located in the cheek area of the face and is responsible for closing the jaw during chewing and biting. The masseter muscle is one of the strongest muscles in the body relative to its size.

Anatomy

The masseter muscle is a facial muscle that is part of the masticatory muscles. It is divided into two parts, the superficial part and the deep part. The superficial part originates from the maxillary process of the zygomatic bone and the anterior two-thirds of the lower border of the zygomatic arch. The deep part originates from the posterior third of the lower border and from the whole of the medial surface of the zygomatic arch.

Function

The masseter muscle is primarily involved in the mechanical process of mastication, specifically in the elevation and protrusion of the mandible. It is also involved in the side-to-side movement of the jaw, which aids in grinding food.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction of the masseter muscle can lead to a variety of conditions, including bruxism (teeth grinding), temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), and myofascial pain syndrome. Treatment for these conditions often involves physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Masticatory muscles
• Mandible
• Bruxism
• Temporomandibular joint disorder
• Myofascial pain syndrome

References

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  Gray378 (masseter highlight)
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  Illustration of head and neck muscle
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  MRI showing masseter muscle and neighbors