Nov 2, 2023 · Why are the pterygoid muscles often referred to as "the wing muscles"? Find out in this article as we explore their anatomy, function and clinical points.

The medial pterygoid muscle (or internal pterygoid muscle) is a thick, quadrilateral muscle of the face. It is supplied by the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve (V). It is important in mastication (chewing).

Nov 25, 2025 · Discover the role of pterygoid muscles in jaw movement, function, and mechanics. Learn how these muscles impact daily activities like chewing and speaking.

The meaning of PTERYGOID is of, relating to, or lying in the region of the inferior part of the sphenoid bone of the vertebrate skull.

The lateral pterygoid muscle is a craniomandibular muscle that helps control movement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It has two heads, superior and inferior, and the inferior is three times …

Dec 3, 2025 · The muscles of mastication are a group of muscles associated with movements of the jaw. There are four muscles - the masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid and lateral pterygoid.

Jul 28, 2020 · Medial pterygoid is a skeletal muscle located on either side of the jaw that assists in opening and closing of the mouth and with chewing. Trismus, or “lockjaw”, is a condition where …

1. Of, relating to, or located in the region of the sphenoid bone: a pterygoid muscle. 2. Resembling a wing; winglike.

Jun 14, 2025 · For both dental professionals and individuals experiencing jaw discomfort, understanding the lateral pterygoid is essential. It is frequently involved in temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), …

Jan 18, 2024 · The pterygoid processes or pterygoid plates are paired posteroinferior projections of the sphenoid bone. Each pterygoid process projects inferiorly from the junction of the body and greater …