Temporalis
Temporalis
Temporalis (pronunciation: tem-po-ral-is) is a broad, fan-shaped muscle on each side of the head that covers much of the temporal bone.
Etymology
The term "Temporalis" is derived from the Latin word "tempus" which means "time". The muscle is so named because the temporal bone, over which this muscle is located, is close to the temples of the head, a place where the effects of time (aging) are often most noticeable.
Function
The Temporalis muscle is one of the muscles involved in mastication, or the process of chewing. It is responsible for moving the mandible upward and backward, enabling the mouth to close and the jaw to clench.
Related Terms
- Mandible: The lower jawbone, which moves during mastication due to the contraction of the Temporalis muscle.
- Mastication: The process of chewing, in which the Temporalis muscle plays a significant role.
- Temporal bone: The bone of the skull over which the Temporalis muscle is located.
- Temporomandibular joint: The joint that connects the mandible to the skull, and is acted upon by the Temporalis muscle.
See Also
- Masseter: Another muscle involved in mastication.
- Pterygoid muscles: Muscles that assist in opening the jaw and moving it side to side.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Temporalis
- Wikipedia's article - Temporalis
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