zygomatisk

Zygomatic (zygomatisk in Swedish) is an anatomical term describing structures related to the zygomatic bone, commonly known as the cheekbone, and to the zygomaticus muscles that connect to the mouth and upper lip. The term is used in anatomy, dentistry, and clinical medicine to designate features and actions in this region.

The zygomatic bone forms the prominence of the cheek and part of the orbit. It articulates with the maxilla at the orbital rim, the frontal bone, the sphenoid, and the temporal bone, contributing to the zygomatic arch via its temporal process. The zygomatic arch is the bony bridge that connects the cheek with the temple and serves as a fulcrum for facial muscles.

In muscle terminology, the zygomaticus major and minor originate on the zygomatic bone. The zygomaticus major extends to the corner of the mouth, while the zygomaticus minor inserts higher on the upper lip. Together, these muscles elevate the corners of the mouth and assist with expressions such as smiling. They are innervated by branches of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII).

Clinical relevance includes fractures of the zygomatic bone or zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures, which can alter facial contour, orbital support, and infraorbital sensation. Such injuries may present with flattening of the cheek prominence, orbital rim issues, or numbness along the distribution of the infraorbital nerve.

Etymology traces the term to Greek zygōma, meaning a yoke or joining, reflecting the bone’s position as a structural joiner in the facial skeleton. See also zygomatic bone, zygomatic arch, and zygomaticus muscles.