Muscles of Mastication

The masseter is large. It arises from the zygomatic arch, and extends beyond the branch of the jaw below and behind. Three strata may be recognized in its structure.

The temporalis is very large and strong, and contains much tendinous tissue. It arises from the temporal fossa and the orbital ligament.

The digastricus is usually not digastric, but is a strong, round, fleshy muscle, which arises on the paramastoid or styloid process and is inserted into the border and inner surface of the ramus at the level of the last molar teeth.

The stylo-mandibularis is absent.