Buccinator muscle

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The buccinator muscle (Latin: musculus buccinator ) is a thin, quadrilateral muscle occupying the interval between the maxilla and the mandible at the side of the face. It forms the anterior part of the cheek or the lateral wall of the oral cavity.

Structure

The buccinator muscle originates from three areas: the outer surfaces of the alveolar processes of the maxilla and the mandible, and the pterygomandibular raphe. The fibers of the buccinator muscle converge towards the angle of the mouth, where they blend with the fibers of the orbicularis oris muscle.

Innervation

The buccinator muscle is innervated by the buccal branch of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve is responsible for the motor supply to the muscle, enabling it to perform its functions.

Blood Supply

The buccinator muscle receives its blood supply from the buccal artery, a branch of the maxillary artery.

Function

The primary function of the buccinator muscle is to compress the cheek against the teeth. This action is essential for activities such as chewing, as it helps to keep the food between the teeth. Additionally, the buccinator muscle assists in blowing air out of the mouth, as in whistling or playing wind instruments.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the buccal branch of the facial nerve can result in paralysis of the buccinator muscle, leading to difficulties in chewing and maintaining food within the oral cavity. This condition can be observed in cases of Bell's palsy or after surgical procedures involving the facial nerve.

Related Pages

• Facial muscles
• Facial nerve
• Maxilla
• Mandible
• Orbicularis oris
• Pterygomandibular raphe
• Maxillary artery

See Also

• Cheek
• Oral cavity
• Bell's palsy