Question

which of the following muscles specifically elevates and laterally pulls the lips during smiling?

a.) orbicularis oris
b.) zygomaticus
c.) orbicularis oculi
d.) buccinator

Explanation:

Identify the action of each listed muscle

• Orbicularis oris: Closes and puckers the lips (kissing muscle).
• Zygomaticus (major/minor): Elevates and pulls the corners of the mouth laterally and upward (smiling muscle).
• Orbicularis oculi: Closes the eyelids (blinking/squinting muscle).
• Buccinator: Compresses the cheeks (blowing/sucking muscle).

Match the target action to the correct muscle

• The prompt asks for the muscle that specifically elevates and laterally pulls the lips during smiling.
• This action corresponds directly to the zygomaticus muscle.

Answer:

• a.) Orbicularis Oris
• b.) Zygomaticus (Correct answer)
• c.) Orbicularis Oculi
• d.) Buccinator