Anatomy & Histology · single question
Which muscle primarily protrudes the mandible?
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Correct answer: C. Lateral pterygoid
- A. The temporalis is primarily an ELEVATOR (closes the mouth), especially the posterior fibers which also retract the mandible.
- B. The masseter is primarily an ELEVATOR (closes the mouth) — not the primary protruder.
- C. The LATERAL PTERYGOID is the primary muscle of mandibular PROTRUSION. The inferior head contracts bilaterally to pull the condyles and discs anteriorly (protrusion). The superior head stabilizes the disc during jaw movements.
- D. The medial pterygoid is primarily an ELEVATOR of the mandible (closes the mouth) and contributes to lateral excursion — not the primary protruder.
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