Part of the TeachMe Series

Masseter

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Original Author(s): Max Bidewell
Last updated: January 16, 2023
Revisions: 4

Original Author(s): Max Bidewell
Last updated: January 16, 2023
Revisions: 4

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The masseter is a muscle of mastication (chewing). It is quadrangular in shape and has two parts – deep and superficial.

  • Attachments:
    • The superficial part originates from maxillary process of the zygomatic bone.
    • The deep part originates from the zygomatic arch of the temporal bone.
    • Both parts attach to the ramus of the mandible.
  • Actions: Elevation of the mandible (closes the mouth).
  • Innervation: Mandibular nerve (V3).
  • Blood Supply: Masseteric artery (branch of maxillary artery).

Fig 1 – The masseter muscle. Only the superficial head is visible