Physiology & Biochemistry · single question

Which combination of muscles elevates the mandible (closes the mouth)?

  1. Masseter, medial pterygoid, temporalis
  2. Masseter, lateral pterygoid, temporalis
  3. Masseter, buccinator, lateral pterygoid
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Correct answer: A. Masseter, medial pterygoid, temporalis

Masseter, medial pterygoid, and temporalis are the three classic, powerful elevators of the mandible. The lateral pterygoid (a protruder/opener-assistant, not an elevator) and buccinator (a muscle of facial expression involved in cheek compression, not mastication-related elevation) do not belong in this elevator group.

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