Australian Dental Council (ADC) Test 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The zygomatic arch is primarily responsible for the attachment of jaw muscles due to its anatomical position and muscle attachment points. This structure, formed by the zygomatic bone and the temporal bone, serves as a critical site for the masseter muscle, one of the main muscles involved in chewing. The zygomatic arch provides the necessary leverage and surface area for the attachment of the muscles that facilitate jaw movement, particularly during biting and grinding actions.

In addition, the zygomatic arch's location contributes to the overall strength and stability of the jaw once the muscles are contracted. This structural design is crucial for effective mastication, highlighting the importance of this arch in the skull's role in oral function.

While the mandible does serve as a site for muscle attachment, it is more focused on the movement and functionality of the jaw itself, rather than being a primary attachment site for the muscle groups acting on the jaw, which include the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoids attaching to the zygomatic area as well. The maxilla and sphenoid, while important for various functions in the skull and facial structure, do not play a primary role in jaw muscle attachment compared to the zygomatic arch.