Final answer:
The four paired muscles of mastication are the temporalis, the masseter, and the lateral and medial pterygoid muscles, which are crucial for the process of chewing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four paired muscles of mastication are the temporalis, the masseter, and the lateral and medial pterygoid muscles. These muscles are essential for the process of chewing, also known as mastication, allowing for the movement and breakdown of food within the mouth. The masseter is the main muscle for chewing, as it elevates the mandible to close the mouth. It's supported by the temporalis muscle that helps retract the mandible, which you can feel moving if you touch your temple while chewing.
The medial pterygoid muscle is responsible for moving the mandible from side to side, playing a critical role in the complex movements necessary for effective mastication.The four paired muscles of mastication are the temporalis, the masseter, and the lateral and medial pterygoid muscles, which are crucial for the process of chewing.