Buccal Branches of the Facial Nerve

The buccal branches of the facial nerve (rami buccinatorii nervi facialis) are small branches of the facial nerve that pass through the buccal region and provide innervation to the cheeks and lips. They are part of the large facial nerve system, which is responsible for the movement of facial muscles and the expression of emotions.

The buccal branches of the facial nerve pass through the submandibular region and the buccal muscle, where they branch into many small branches that innervate the muscles of the cheeks, lips and chin. These branches also provide innervation to the muscles of mastication and the muscles responsible for smiling and laughing.

If the buccal branches of the facial nerve are damaged, cheek paralysis can occur, which leads to drooping corners of the mouth and impaired cheek movement. This can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking and facial expressions. Treatment for such injuries may include surgical repair of the nerve or the use of electrical stimulation.

In addition, the buccal branches of the facial nerve can be useful in diagnosing certain diseases such as tumors and infections of the buccal area. In this case, when performing a computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, the presence of buccal branches can be seen, which can help in making a diagnosis.

In general, the buccal branches of the facial nerve play an important role in innervation of the cheeks and face, and damage to them can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, it is important to monitor your health and, if necessary, consult a doctor to diagnose and treat any problems with these branches.