Rhythmic opposition & separation of jaws with the involvement of teeth, lips, cheeks & tongue for chewing of food in order to prepare it for swallowing & digestion.

Mastication is also called as Chewing in common words.

Various parts involved:

• Teeth
• Tongue
• Palate
• Lips / Cheeks

Functions Of Mastication:

Increases surface area for action of enzymes
Stimulates mucosal circulation & keratinisation of mucosa
Increases thickness of periodontal ligament
Stimulates alveolar bone growth

For detailed information on mastication, click on the following Heading to be directed to the detailed post:

1. Masticatory Forces
2. Masticatory muscles
3.  Masticatory Cycle Phases
4.  Neural Masticatory Receptors
5.  Neural Control of Mastication
6. Masticatory Reflexes