Muscles of facial expression

Question 1

Outline

Answer 1

these muscles produce numerous facial expressions that humans are capable of showing - smiling, frowning, winking, pursing lips etc

Question 2

In contrast to muscles of mastication + suprahyoids

Answer 2

those of facial expression are not involved in producing skeletal movements + most are only attached at one end to the skull. their other ends are inserted into the deep layer of facial skin only, so that their contraction causes skin movement only

Question 3

All muscles of facial expression

Answer 3

are innervated by the motor branch of the facial nerve (seventh cranial nerve)

Question 4

They can be grouped according to the facial region that their actions involve

Answer 4

the scalp
the eyes + surrounding area
the mouth + surrounding area

Question 5

The main muscle of the eye

Answer 5

is a ring of tissue caused orbicularis oculi + that of the mouth is orbicularis oris. Thin straps of muscles run between these rings + into surrounding tissues, to allow movement of eyelids, lips, mouth + nostrils

Question 6

The cheek muscle

Answer 6

is called buccinator + is attached above + below to the outer surface of the alveolar process of each jaw. it connects to the muscular wall of the throat behind + to orbicularis oris in front.

Question 7

Buccinator helps with

Answer 7

chewing movements by helping to keep ingested food within the confines of the teeth, while the jaw actions cause the teeth to cut + shred food before swallowing