Restorative & Materials · single question
Which muscle can be affected by facial nerve palsy (CN VII palsy)?
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Correct answer: C. Buccinator (innervated by CN VII buccal branch)
- A. Temporalis is innervated by deep temporal branches of CN V3 — not affected by facial nerve palsy.
- B. Lateral pterygoid is innervated by a branch of V3 — not the facial nerve.
- C. Correct. The BUCCINATOR is a muscle of FACIAL EXPRESSION innervated by the BUCCAL BRANCH of the FACIAL NERVE (CN VII). In CN VII palsy, the buccinator (and other facial muscles on the affected side) becomes paretic — causing inability to puff cheeks, food accumulation in the cheek, and facial asymmetry.
- D. Masseter is a muscle of MASTICATION innervated by CN V3 — NOT the facial nerve. CN VII palsy does not affect the masseter.
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