Mentalis

The mentalis (Latin: musculus mentalis) is a facial muscle located in the chin area below the mouth. It is classified as the buccolabial facial muscle. The mentalis produces small dimples in the skin of the chin.

Origin

The mentalis originates from the incisive fossa located on the alveolar process of the mandible below the lateral incisor.

Insertion

The fibers of the mentalis radiate from the origin site and insert into the skin of the chin.

Action

Upon activation, the mentalis muscle produces small dimples in the chin. Contractions of the muscle produce facial expressions presenting doubt and indecision.

Innervation

The mentalis is innervated by the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve (CN VII).

Blood supply

The mentalis muscle receives blood supply from the inferior labial branch of the facial artery and mental branch of the maxillary artery.