Which muscle acts as a key influence on the bulging contour of the denture base along the mandible?

The masseter muscle plays a crucial role in the bulging contour of the denture base along the mandible due to its location and function. This muscle is one of the primary muscles of mastication and is responsible for elevating the mandible, which contributes to the overall shape and support of the jaw. The masseter's strong attachments to both the zygomatic arch and the mandible mean that it exerts significant forces during chewing, influencing the contour where the denture base sits.

When a denture is being constructed and fitted, it is essential to account for the influence of the masseter muscle because its action can affect the stability and retention of the denture. A well-contoured denture base needs to accommodate the musculature of the patient, and the masseter's bulk and position create a specific anatomical contour that must be reflected in the design of the denture.

The other muscles listed have different roles that do not primarily influence the contour of the denture base in the same way. For instance, while the buccinators contribute to the oral musculature and help maintain food in the correct position during chewing, they do not produce the same significant contouring effect on the mandible. The suprahyoid muscles are involved