INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam 2024 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The superior head of the lateral pterygoid muscle is responsible for the power stroke of closing the jaw against resistance. This muscle plays a key role in the process of mastication (chewing) by contracting to move the mandible upward and forward, allowing for effective biting and grinding of food. The other options, such as the masseter, temporalis, and medial pterygoid muscles, also contribute to the closing of the jaw during mastication, but they are not specifically noted for being the primary muscle responsible for the power stroke against resistance.