Function?
Control chewing and jaw movement.
← All explanationsMuscles of mastication
Which muscles move the lower jaw?
Several muscles work together to control chewing and mandibular movement. The main groups are masseter, temporalis and the medial and lateral pterygoids. Facial pain does not always originate in a tooth.
For training & practice ↓
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Close and guide
Muscles at the cheek, temple and deeper in the face coordinate movement with both jaw joints.
Notice loading
Prolonged clenching and other loads may accompany symptoms. Tension alone cannot establish their cause.
Identify the source
Teeth, joints, muscles and other possible sources are assessed. This does not automatically lead to a splint or injection.
At a glance
If painful?
Assess the source and contributing factors.
Preparation?
Record the pattern and relevant activities.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available below.
Read the film text in English
Close and guide
Muscles at the cheek, temple and deeper in the face coordinate movement with both jaw joints.
Notice loading
Prolonged clenching and other loads may accompany symptoms. Tension alone cannot establish their cause.
Identify the source
Teeth, joints, muscles and other possible sources are assessed. This does not automatically lead to a splint or injection.
Often confused
Muscle pain versus tooth pain
Muscle pain may be referred elsewhere. The perceived location is not always its source.
Quick answers
Are all cheek muscles chewing muscles?
No. Masseter lies over the outer jaw angle; other cheek muscles perform different tasks.
Does aching always mean grinding?
No. There are different causes; persistent symptoms need assessment.
What helps at the appointment?
Note when pain occurs and whether chewing, yawning or clenching changes it. Avoid repeatedly pressing hard on painful areas.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Does my pain arise from a tooth, a muscle or the joint?
Recurring pain on chewing deserves a focused assessment.
Discuss pain on chewingAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Masseter
- A strong muscle at the outer jaw.
- Temporalis
- Fan-shaped muscle at the temple.
- Pterygoid
- A deeper muscle group.
Make the distinction
Muscle pain may be referred elsewhere. The perceived location is not always its source.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.