Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

Which muscle around the mouth is responsible for actions like puckering the lips?

1. Buccinator

2. Orbicularis oris

3. Masseter

4. Risorius

The correct answer is: Orbicularis oris

The muscle responsible for actions like puckering the lips is the orbicularis oris. This muscle encircles the mouth and is essential for various movements, including closing the lips, puckering, and other facial expressions that involve lip movements. The structure of the orbicularis oris allows it to effectively control the lips, making it vital for actions such as speaking, eating, and expressing emotions. Its role in facial expressions is particularly important for communication and interaction. While the buccinator plays a role in chewing and helping to keep food in the proper position within the mouth, it does not primarily facilitate lip puckering. The masseter is a powerful muscle involved in jaw movement and chewing, and the risorius is more associated with smiling rather than puckering. Understanding the specific functions of these facial muscles highlights why the orbicularis oris is correctly identified as the muscle that facilitates lip puckering.