What is the meaning of Digastric Muscle?
Digastric Muscle is widely used term in Dental Anatomy.
The digastric muscle is a paired muscle located in the floor of the mouth on each side. It is involved in the movement and stabilization of the jaw during chewing and swallowing. The muscle consists of two bellies: the anterior belly and the posterior belly.
The anterior belly originates from the inner surface of the lower border of the mandible (lower jaw bone) near the symphysis (midline). It inserts into a tendon called the intermediate tendon.
The posterior belly originates from the mastoid process, which is a bony prominence behind the ear. It travels forward and downward to meet the anterior belly at the intermediate tendon.
The intermediate tendon acts as an intermediate pull between the two bellies, forming a V-shaped connection. From this tendon, a fibrous sling called the hyoid bone (a U-shaped bone in the neck) is attached.
The primary function of the digastric muscle is to help open the mouth by depressing the mandible. It also assists in swallowing by raising the hyoid bone and stabilizing it during the process. Additionally, it contributes to the movement and control of the tongue.
Overall, the digastric muscle plays an essential role in the coordination of various oral functions, making it an important component of dental anatomy.
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