Question

activation of which of the following muscles causes right lateral excursion of the tmj? a) left temporalis, right lateral pterygoid b) left masseter, left lateral pterygoid c) right temporalis, right medial pterygoid d) right masseter, left medial pterygoid

Explanation:

When the left temporalis contracts, it helps in the elevation and retraction of the mandible, and the right lateral pterygoid is involved in the lateral excursion (side - to - side movement). For right lateral excursion of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the left temporalis (which has fibers that can contribute to the overall mandibular movement coordination) and the right lateral pterygoid (a key muscle for lateral movement) work together.
The masseter is mainly for elevation of the mandible, and the medial pterygoid also has a role in elevation and medial movement rather than the specific combination for right lateral excursion as required.

Answer:

a) Left temporalis, right lateral pterygoid