Does the buccinator attach to the modiolus?

The buccinator is a muscle of facial expression located in the cheek area. It plays a crucial role in various functions, such as facilitating chewing by holding the food between the teeth and assisting in actions like blowing and sucking. The modiolus, on the other hand, is a fibrous junction at the angle of the mouth where several muscles of facial expression, including the buccinator, orbicularis oris, and others, converge.

The attachment of the buccinator to the modiolus allows it to support and stabilize the facial structure during movement, ensuring that the lips maintain their form during various activities, including speaking and eating. This anatomical relationship is key to understanding how facial muscles work together to produce the functions associated with facial expressions and oral mechanics.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the anatomical connection between the buccinator and the modiolus, emphasizing the importance of this attachment in both movement and maintaining the integrity of the mouth's structure.