Buccinator Muscle

Buccinator Muscle

Give the origin, insertion, nerve supply and actions of the buccinator muscle.
Answer.

Buccinator Muscle Origin

• Upper fibres, from the alveolar process of the maxilla, opposite upper molar teeth.
• Lower fibres, from the alveolar process of the mandible, opposite lower molar teeth.
• Middle fibres, from pterygomandibular raphe.

Buccinator Muscle Insertion

• Upper fibres pass straight to be inserted into the upper lip.
• Lower fibres pass straight to be inserted into the lower lip.
• Middle fibres decussate before passing to the respective lips.

Buccinator Muscle Nerve supply By facial nerve.

Buccinator Muscle Actions

• Flatten’s cheek against gum and teeth.
• Prevents accumulation of food into the vestibule of the mouth.
• Helps in blowing the cheek (hence is also called the whistling muscle).