The temporalis is a muscle of mastication (chewing). It is located on the lateral aspect of the skull.
- Attachments: Originates from the temporal fossa of the skull and attaches onto the coronoid process of the mandible.
- Actions: Elevation of the mandible (closing the mouth). Also performs retraction of the mandible, moving the jaw posteriorly.
- Innervation: Mandibular nerve (V3).
- Blood supply – Maxillary artery and superficial temporal artery.
