In addition to closing the mandible, what else does the masseter facilitate during its contraction?

The masseter muscle plays a crucial role in the movement of the jaw, primarily through its function in closing the mandible during chewing and other activities. When the masseter contracts, it not only elevates the mandible to close the jaw but also contributes to stabilizing the jaw. This stabilization is vital for maintaining the position of the mandible against external forces, particularly while biting down on food or during other movements of the jaw. A stable jaw allows for effective chewing without risking misalignment or injury to the temporomandibular joint.

In contrast, the other options present movements or functions not primarily associated with the masseter. For example, pushing the mandible downwards is more related to the actions of opposing muscles rather than the masseter itself, which primarily elevates the mandible. Turning the mandible is influenced by other muscles, particularly those involved in lateral movements, and the concept of "almost deglutition" refers to a swallowing process that involves multiple muscle groups, not just the masseter.