Pterygoid Muscle (Noun)
Meaning
Muscle descending from the sphenoid bone to the lower jaw.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The pterygoid muscle plays a crucial role in the movement of the lower jaw, allowing for actions such as chewing and speaking.
- The pterygoid muscle is divided into two parts, the medial and lateral pterygoid, which work together to facilitate jaw movement.
- In anatomy, the pterygoid muscle is described as a muscle of mastication, originating from the sphenoid bone and inserting into the mandible.
- Damage to the pterygoid muscle can result in difficulties with jaw movement and alignment, leading to issues with eating and speaking.
- The pterygoid muscle is innervated by the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve, which provides the necessary motor control for its function.