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Masseter Deep Head

caput profundum m. masseteris

The deep head of the masseter is smaller and more vertically oriented than the superficial head, retracting the mandible during jaw closure. Its attachment to the coronoid process assists temporalis in jaw closing.

Nerve: Masseteric nerve (V3) Blood Supply: Masseteric artery Region: Head & Skull

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Posterior third of the zygomatic arch and medial surface of the arch
Insertion	Upper half of the mandibular ramus and coronoid process
Nerve Supply	Masseteric nerve (V3)
Blood Supply	Masseteric artery

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions	Closes the jaw — assists elevation; Retracts the mandible

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The deep head is identified in subtotal parotidectomy and masseter resection surgery. In temporomandibular joint arthroscopy, the deep head attachment to the mandibular ramus is the posterior reference for trocar placement. Isolated deep head hypertrophy is less common but contributes to the posterior jaw fullness pattern.

Palpation

Palpated as the posterior mandibular ramus muscle mass during maximal jaw clenching.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Deep Masseter Head Contracture in TMJ Dysfunction

Deep head masseter contracture producing limited mouth opening and posterior jaw pain in temporomandibular dysfunction, managed by occlusal splints and physiotherapy.