What muscle group is primarily responsible for mandibular elevation?

• A. Mandibular depressors
• B. Mandibular elevators
• C. Intrinsic tongue muscles
• D. Extrinsic tongue muscles

Answer: (B)

The muscle group primarily responsible for mandibular elevation is the mandibular elevators. This group includes muscles such as the masseter, temporalis, and medial pterygoid, all of which play crucial roles in closing the jaw. When these muscles contract, they elevate the mandible, allowing for actions such as biting and chewing.

Mandibular depressors, as the name suggests, instead function to lower the mandible, facilitating opening of the mouth. The intrinsic and extrinsic tongue muscles do not contribute to the movement of the mandible; rather, they are involved in tongue movements and functions related to speech and swallowing. Therefore, the elevation of the mandible is specifically attributed to the action of the mandibular elevators.