The cheek muscle, scientifically known as the buccinator muscle, is a flat, bilaterally symmetric muscle located at the side of the face, beneath the skin. It is one of the many muscles that make up the craniofacial musculature, which are responsible for the movement and shape of the face.
Anatomy of the Buccinator Muscle
The buccinator muscle arises from several different structures: the maxilla, mandible, and pterygoid processes, as well as the pterygomandibular raphe, which is the partition between the constrictor pharyngis superior and the oral cavity. Its fibers converge at the angle of the mouth, where they intersect each other, allowing for the muscle to pull the cheek muscles laterally and forward. The buccinator muscle is equipped with numerous blood vessels and nerves, including the buccal branch of the facial nerve (VII cranial nerve), which supplies motor innervation and the buccal branch of the maxillary nerve, which provides sensory innervation.
Function of the Buccinator Muscle
The primary function of the buccinator muscle is to compress the cheek muscles against the teeth, assisting in mastication (chewing) and aiding in the production of facial expressions such as smiling or pouting. Additionally, it serves to keep the food bolus centered in the oral cavity during chewing and plays a role in the oral-pharyngeal phase of swallowing. During speech, the buccinator adds bulk to the lips, allowing for a more rounded expression and facilitating the flow of air through the nostrils via the vestibule of the ear.
Applications of the Buccinator Muscle
Beyond its physiological role, the buccinator muscle is also frequently discussed in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. It is occasionally used as a flap in reconstructive surgeries, particularly in the correction of oral cavity defects.由于其弹性和易于拉伸的特性，它能够很好地适应形状复杂的缺陷。
Clinical Significance of Buccinator Muscle
Buccinator muscle hyperactivity can result in a narrow arch and malocclusion due to excessive compression of underlying hard tissues. When the buccinator muscle is damaged, it can lead to buccinator paralysis, making it difficult to chew, speaking, or making facial expressions. Additionally, loss of buccinator function may cause repeated cheek mucosal lacerations.
Related Disorders and Conditions
Conditions that can affect the buccinator muscle include conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which can cause clicking or locking of the jaw joint, and parotiditis, an inflammation of the parotid gland. These conditions can lead to discomfort or疼痛 in the cheekarea and may require medical intervention.
In conclusion, the cheek muscle or Buccinator plays a critical role in the movement and shape of the face. Its diverse functions include aiding in mastication, creating facial expressions, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. Its clinical significance includes its utilization as a flap in reconstructive surgeries and knowledge of its anatomy and function is vital in various medical fields.