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Levator anguli oris

The levator anguli oris (Latin: musculus levator anguli oris) is a facial muscle located above the upper lip close to the opening of the oral cavity. It is classified as the buccolabial facial muscle. The levator anguli oris lifts the angle of the mouth.

Levator anguli oris with other facial muscles
Levator anguli oris by Anatomy Next
Levator anguli oris
OriginCanine fossa
InsertionSkin at angle of mouth
ActionLifts angle of mouth
InnervationBuccal branch of facial nerve (CN VII)
Blood supply Superior labial artery of facial artery

 

Origin

The levator anguli oris arises from the canine fossa located on the anterior surface of the maxilla right below the infraorbital foramen.

 

Insertion

The levator anguli oris inserts into the skin at the angle of the mouth.

Origin and insertion of levator anguli oris
Origin and insertion of levator anguli oris by Anatomy Next

 

Action

When activated, the levator anguli oris lifts the angle of the mouth, thus participating in creating a smile. Contractions of this muscle produce a facial expression associated with self-confidence.

Action of levator anguli oris
Action of levator anguli oris by Anatomy Next

 

Innervation

The levator anguli oris is innervated by the buccal branch of the facial nerve (CN VII).

 

Blood supply

The levator anguli oris receives arterial blood supply mainly from the superior labial branch of the facial artery.