Muscles of the Head

Front

What is the Temporalis muscle?

Back

The Temporalis is a fan-shaped muscle located on the side of the head, responsible for elevating and retracting the mandible (jawbone). It is involved in chewing and is one of the muscles of mastication.

Front

What is the Occipitalis muscle?

Back

The Occipitalis is a muscle located at the back of the head. It helps in moving the scalp backward and is part of the epicranius muscle group.

Front

What is the Zygomaticus muscle?

Back

The Zygomaticus muscle is responsible for smiling. It extends from the zygomatic bone to the corners of the mouth, allowing for elevation of the mouth corners.

Front

What is the Trapezius muscle?

Back

The Trapezius is a large muscle that extends down the back of the neck and upper spine. It is responsible for moving, rotating, and stabilizing the shoulder blade and extending the neck.

Front

What is the Platysma muscle?

Back

The Platysma is a superficial muscle that runs from the chest and shoulder muscles up to the jaw. It helps in depressing the mandible and tensing the skin of the neck.

Front

What is the function of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle?

Back

The Sternocleidomastoid muscle is responsible for rotating and flexing the head. It runs from the sternum and clavicle to the mastoid process of the skull.

Front

What is the Orbicularis Oris muscle?

Back

The Orbicularis Oris is a circular muscle around the mouth that controls movements of the lips, such as puckering and closing.

Front

What is the Orbicularis Oculi muscle?

Back

The Orbicularis Oculi is a circular muscle around the eyes that allows for closing the eyelids and blinking.

Front

What is the Risorius muscle?

Back

The Risorius is a muscle that pulls the corners of the mouth laterally, contributing to expressions of laughter.

Front

What are the muscles of mastication?

Back

The muscles of mastication include the Temporalis, Masseter, Medial Pterygoid, and Lateral Pterygoid, which are responsible for chewing.