What is the function of the buccinator muscle?

The function of the buccinator muscle is primarily to compress the cheeks. This muscle plays a crucial role in facilitating actions such as chewing and speaking by keeping food positioned between the teeth. When the buccinator contracts, it pushes the cheeks inward, which helps prevent food from accumulating in the spaces between the teeth and enhances the efficiency of the oral cavity during mastication.

In the context of facial muscles, the buccinator is often involved in actions that require the cheeks to be held firm or to assist in blowing air, as seen when playing wind instruments or releasing air from the mouth. Its anatomical placement and muscle fibers enable it to function effectively in these roles, demonstrating its importance in both the digestive process and verbal communication.