Musculus temporalis

Musculus Temporalis

The Musculus Temporalis is one of the muscles of mastication, or chewing, and is located on the side of the head. It is a broad, fan-shaped muscle that fills the temporal fossa, superior to the zygomatic arch and the infratemporal fossa.

Anatomy

The Musculus Temporalis originates from the temporal fossa and the deep surface of the temporal fascia. It passes medial to the zygomatic arch and forms a tendon which inserts onto the coronoid process of the mandible, with its fibers continuing to the anterior border and ramus of the mandible.

Function

The primary function of the Musculus Temporalis is to elevate the mandible, which closes the jaws. It is also involved in the retraction and lateral movement of the mandible.

Clinical Significance

Conditions that affect the Musculus Temporalis can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), a condition that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.

See Also

• Mastication
• Mandible
• Temporal Fossa
• Infratemporal Fossa
• Temporal Fascia
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder