National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What type of muscle is primarily responsible for closing the jaw?

1. Medial pterygoid

2. Lateral pterygoid

3. Temporalis

4. Masseter

The correct answer is: Masseter

The muscle primarily responsible for closing the jaw is the masseter. This powerful muscle is located in the cheek region and plays a crucial role in the process of mastication, or chewing. When the masseter contracts, it elevates the mandible (lower jaw) to close the mouth and enable biting and grinding of food. While other muscles, such as the temporalis and medial pterygoid, assist in closing the jaw, the masseter is considered the primary muscle for this action due to its strength and leverage. The temporalis muscle also aids in further elevating the jaw and retracting it, contributing to jaw function, but the masseter is the main muscle responsible for the initial closing force. The lateral pterygoid muscle, in contrast, is involved in opening the jaw and facilitating side-to-side movements, emphasizing the specific roles that different muscles play in jaw function. Thus, the masseter stands out as the key muscle for closing the jaw effectively.