The trigeminal nerve is the nerve that controls chewing.
The trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) is responsible for both sensory and motor functions related to the face and mouth. Specifically, it controls the muscles of mastication, which are the muscles involved in chewing. These muscles include:
- Masseter: Elevates the mandible (closes the jaw).
- Temporalis: Elevates and retracts the mandible.
- Medial pterygoid: Elevates and protrudes the mandible; assists in lateral movements.
- Lateral pterygoid: Depresses and protrudes the mandible; assists in lateral movements.
Damage to the trigeminal nerve can result in difficulty chewing, weakness in the jaw, and even jaw deviation upon opening the mouth. The sensory branch of the trigeminal nerve also provides sensation to the face, teeth, and oral cavity, but its motor branch specifically controls the muscles directly involved in chewing.
