When the jaw is opened________________?

Correct answer: C. Lateral pterygoids contract

  • A. Condyles move upwards
  • B. Articular disc moves posteriorly
  • C. Lateral pterygoids contract
  • D. Condyles moves around vertical axis

Explanation

Wide opening of the jaw requires contraction of the lateral pterygoid, which pulls the mandibular condyle and articular disc forwards onto the articular tubercle. The condyle therefore translates forwards rather than moving upward or simply rotating around a vertical axis.

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