Facial Muscles By Nicky Adams

AIMS We are going to explore the various facial muscles Then learn the various functions of these muscles

These are the names of the muscles that move the head: Sternomastoid Trapezius

Sternomastoid This muscle runs from sternum to the clavicle bone, and the temporal bone It flexes the neck, rotates and bows the head

Trapezius This is a large triangular muscle, covering the back of the neck and upper back It draws the head backwards, and allows movement at the shoulder

These are the muscles of mastication: Masseter Temporalis

Masseter This muscle is found around the cheek area, it extends from the zygomatic bone to the mandible It clenches the teeth, closes and raises the lower jaw

Temporalis It extends from the temples at the sides of the head, to the mandible It raises the jaw and draws it backwards, as in chewing

These are the muscles of facial expression Occipital-frontalis Corrugator Orbicularis oculi Risorius Buccinator Zygomaticus Orbicularis oris Mentalis Depresor labii Platysma

Occipital-frontalis This muscle is found at the forehead, and runs to the occipital region This muscle raises the eyebrows Giving a surprised facial expression

Corrugator This muscle is found between the eyebrows It draws the eyebrows together Making your frown

Orbicularis oculi This muscle surrounds the eyes It closes the eyelid Used when winking

Risorius This muscle extends diagonally from the corners of the mouth It draws the mouth corners outwards Used when smiling

Buccinator This muscle is found inside the cheeks It compresses the cheeks Is used when blowing

Zygomaticus This muscle extends diagonally from the corners of the mouth Lifts the mouth corners, upwards and outwards Is used when smiling and laughing

Orbicularis oris This muscle surrounds the mouth It is used to purse the lips, and closes the mouth It is used to pout and kiss

Mentalis This muscle is found around the chin It raises the lower lip, causing the chin to wrinkle It will give a doubt facial expression

Depressor labii This muscle extends over the chin It draws down the mouths corners Is used when sulking

Platysma This muscle is found at the sides of the neck It draws down the mouths corners downwards and backwards It is used when we are scared frightened (fear, horror)

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