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Tutorial 61 - The Kissing Muscle

Added 2016-03-02 07:55:42 +0000 UTC

The orbiculairs oris muscle encircles the lips and acts like a sphincter (though it really isn't) in it's opening and closing capabilities. Almost all the surrounding muscles of the mouth merge with it, allowing the muscle to be pulled in the respective directions for a variety of actions and expressions.

The muscle originates from the upper jaw and lower jaw and inserts into the lips.

Combined with other muscles in the chin, the orbicularis oris creates a notable W shape below the lower lips , which is very pronounced on some people, especially in the right lighting. Above the lips, the muscle draws towards the nose, just below the the septum. There's a notable depression here called the philtrum.