Part of the TeachMe Series

Orbicularis Oris

star star star star star
based on 1 ratings

Original Author(s): Max Bidewell
Last updated: January 18, 2023
Revisions: 7

Original Author(s): Max Bidewell
Last updated: January 18, 2023
Revisions: 7

format_list_bulletedContents add remove
 

The orbicularis oris is an oral muscle of facial expression. It is the main sphincter muscle of the lips.

  • Attachments – Arises from the maxilla and from the other muscles of the cheek. It inserts onto the skin and mucous membrane of the lips.
  • Action – Closes the lips to narrow the oral opening.
  • Innervation – Buccal branches of the facial nerve.
  • Blood supply – Superior and inferior labial branches of the facial artery

Fig 1 – The main oral muscles of facial expression. Note how the fibres of buccinator and orbicularis oris blend togther