Which muscles are commonly known as the chewing muscles that coordinate the opening and closing of the mouth?

The temporalis and masseter muscles are the primary muscles involved in the process of chewing, or mastication. The masseter is a thick, powerful muscle that elevates the mandible (lower jaw), and is responsible for closing the mouth. The temporalis muscle also aids in this function by elevating and retracting the mandible. Together, these muscles allow for the necessary movements to grind and crush food effectively, making them essential for efficient chewing.

Understanding the roles of these muscles is important for estheticians, as knowledge of facial structure can inform various skin treatments and enhance overall client care.