Levator Anguli Oris Definition
It is a muscle responsible for elevating the angle of the mouth. It is connected to the nerve known as the buccal branch. This facial muscle receives fresh oxygenated blood from the facial artery network.
Levator Anguli Oris Location
This muscle arises from the Canine Fossa, just below the infraorbital foramen. Its fibers are inserted into the angle of the mouth and intermingle with those of the Orbicularis oris, Triangularis and Zygomaticus. It originates from the maxilla bone and enters into a chiasma of muscle which is found near the corners of the mouth. Thus, there are two levator anguli oris muscles, both of which are located on either side of the mouth. The muscle moves from deep to superficial level to insert into the lateral edge of the upper lip and into the modiolus.
Levator Anguli Oris Function
This muscle functions to elevate the angle of the mouth at the corner. It assists in nonverbal communication. It helps the face to make the most common expressions, such as the smile. The corners of the mouth move upward when both the levator anguli oris muscles work together.
Levator Anguli Oris Disorders
Conditions that affect this muscle include:
- Stroke
- Myopathy
- Myalgia
- Tears
- Myositis
- Strains
- Atrophy
- Contusions
- Neuromuscular diseases
Such problems give rise to various symptoms, such as:
- Pain in the cheek muscle
- Reduced movement of the mouth
- Paralysis of the facial muscles
- Fever
- Bleeding
- Inflammation
- Muscular spasms
- Muscular weakness
A sufferer may also experience loss of muscle control in the mouth.
Levator Anguli Oris Pictures
Take a peek at these pictures to understand the location and function of this muscle.
Picture 1 – Levator Anguli Oris
Picture 2 – Levator Anguli Oris Image
References:
http://health.yahoo.net/human-body-maps/levator-anguli-oris
http://www.gpnotebook.co.uk/simplepage.cfm?ID=-160759731
http://www.rightdiagnosis.com/organ/levator_anguli_oris.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levator_anguli_oris
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