Which facial muscle primarily elevates (raises) the corner of the mouth during smiling?

• A. Buccinator
• B. Orbicularis oris
• C. Zygomaticus major
• D. Depressor anguli oris

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of each muscle listed in the options. The Buccinator muscle primarily compresses the cheek, aiding in actions like blowing and chewing.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the Orbicularis oris muscle encircles the mouth and is responsible for movements such as puckering the lips, not elevating the mouth corners.
3. Step 3: Identify that the Depressor anguli oris muscle pulls the corners of the mouth downward, which is the opposite action of smiling.
4. Step 4: Learn that the Zygomaticus major muscle originates from the zygomatic bone and inserts into the corner of the mouth, and its primary action is to elevate the corner of the mouth, producing a smile.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the muscle responsible for raising the corner of the mouth during smiling is the Zygomaticus major.