Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

What is the primary motor nerve responsible for facial movements?

1. Optic nerve

2. Trigeminal nerve

3. Facial nerve

4. Vagus nerve

The correct answer is: Facial nerve

The facial nerve is primarily responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression. It innervates muscles that allow you to perform various facial movements, such as smiling, frowning, raising eyebrows, and closing the eyes. In addition to motor functions, the facial nerve also carries sensory information, including taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. Its role in facial muscle control is essential for nonverbal communication and other essential facial functions. Other nerves listed, such as the optic nerve, are primarily involved in vision, while the trigeminal nerve mainly handles sensation in the face and muscles for chewing. The vagus nerve is involved in autonomic functions related to the heart and digestive tract. Therefore, the facial nerve stands out as the critical nerve responsible for motor facial movements.