Anatomy & Histology · single question
In the Bell's palsy case with facial drooping and inability to close the eye, which muscle's paralysis most likely causes the MOUTH DROOPING?
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Correct answer: C. Buccinator
The buccinator is innervated by the BUCCAL branch of the facial nerve (CN VII). In Bell's palsy, buccinator paralysis causes cheek drooping and mouth corner drooping/inability to keep food in mouth. Source confirms: 'c-buccinator.'
- A. Temporalis = muscle of mastication, V3 innervation — not CN VII, not affected.
- B. Lateral pterygoid = V3 innervation — not CN VII, not affected in facial nerve palsy.
- C. CORRECT. Buccinator = buccal branch of CN VII. Paralysis causes cheek/mouth drooping in facial nerve palsy.
- D. Masseter = muscle of mastication innervated by V3 (trigeminal) — NOT CN VII; not affected in Bell's palsy.
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