MASTICATORY SYSTEM Meaning and
Definition
-
The masticatory system refers to the complex network of structures and components involved in the process of chewing and mastication. It primarily includes the teeth, jaws, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), facial muscles, and associated soft tissues.
The teeth, which consist of different types such as incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, play a crucial role in the masticatory system. They are responsible for breaking down food into smaller, more manageable pieces that can be further processed and digested by the digestive system.
The jaws, including the upper maxilla and lower mandible, provide the necessary framework and mobility for chewing movements. The temporomandibular joint acts as a hinge-like connecting point between the skull and the lower jaw, facilitating the opening and closing of the mouth, as well as side-to-side movements.
Facial muscles, including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles, work together to control the movements of the jaw during chewing. These muscles contract and relax in a coordinated manner to provide the necessary force and precision required for efficient mastication.
The soft tissues, such as the tongue, cheeks, and lips, also contribute to the masticatory system by assisting in the manipulation of food during chewing, as well as the formation of a cohesive bolus ready for swallowing.
Overall, the masticatory system is essential for the initial breakdown of food and the preparation of the bolus for digestion. It allows for the efficient extraction of nutrients from ingested food, facilitating the overall process of digestion and assimilation.
Common Misspellings for MASTICATORY SYSTEM
- nasticatory system
- kasticatory system
- jasticatory system
- mzsticatory system
- mssticatory system
- mwsticatory system
- mqsticatory system
- maaticatory system
- mazticatory system
- maxticatory system
- madticatory system
- maeticatory system
- mawticatory system
- masricatory system
- masficatory system
- masgicatory system
- masyicatory system
- mas6icatory system
- mas5icatory system
- mastucatory system
Etymology of MASTICATORY SYSTEM
The word "masticatory" originates from the Latin word "masticare", which means "to chew". The suffix "-ory" is often used to form nouns referring to a place, instrument, or action associated with a particular activity. Therefore, the term "masticatory" means "related to chewing".
The word "system" comes from the Latin word "systema", which in turn originates from the Greek word "sustēma". It refers to a set of connected things or parts organized to work together as a unified whole. In the context of biology and anatomy, "system" refers to a group of organs or structures that work together to perform a specific function.
