This unique relationship between the lateral pterygoid muscles and the mechanoreceptor periodontal receptors is so definite that it even overrides the normal tendency of the muscle to rest when it becomes fatigued. The muscles can- not relax the protective bracing contraction as long as the occlusal interference is present.The pattern of deviation is reinforced every time contact is made, and it is retained in the brain’s memory bank so that muscular closure into the deviated jaw relationship becomes automatic. One important facet of the mechanoreceptor memory, however, is that it fades rapidly if continual rein- forcement of the pattern ceases. Elimination of interfering contacts permits an almost immediate return to normal mus- cle function. The deviation pattern is forgotten as soon as it is no longer needed.