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Mylohyoid Muscle: Unsung Hero of Speech and Swallowing

Meet the mylohyoid muscle, a versatile powerhouse behind clear speech and effortless swallowing. Its strategic placement and multifaceted functions make it integral to oral health and communication.

This is a collage picture of different animals.
This is a collage picture of different animals.

Mylohyoid Muscle: Unsung Hero of Speech and Swallowing

The mylohyoid muscle, a key player in oral functions, has been in the spotlight. This versatile muscle has three primary roles: lowering the jaw, lifting the floor of the mouth during swallowing, and raising the hyoid bone. It's supplied by the dedicated mylohyoid nerve and is part of the suprahyoid group, serving as one of the extrinsic tongue muscles.

Located on either side of the jaw, each mylohyoid muscle connects to the mylohyoid raphe in the middle of the mandible's underside. This strategic placement allows it to support the tongue and play a crucial role in speech and swallowing. The mylohyoid nerve, a branch of the mandibular nerve, ensures the muscle's proper functioning.

The mylohyoid muscle's elevation of the hyoid bone influences the production of velar consonants and vowels. This action, along with its support for the tongue, underscores its significance in both speech and swallowing mechanics.

The mylohyoid muscle, with its multifaceted functions, is integral to oral health and communication. Its interactions with the mylohyoid nerve and hyoid bone highlight the intricate design of the human body, where each component plays a vital role in overall function.

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