Which muscle depresses the mandible and opens the mouth?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Lateral pterygoid
The lateral pterygoid helps open the jaw and protrude the mandible. It works opposite the closing muscles of mastication.
Keep practicing
More Head and neck anatomy questions
- Which structure forms the anterior portion of the nasal septum?
- Which sinus is located within the cheekbone area?
- Which cranial nerve provides taste sensation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?
- Which bone houses the pituitary gland?
- Which muscle is known as the “smiling muscle”?
- Which of the following is a function of the buccinator muscle?