The buccinator muscle is a thin, flat muscle located in the cheek area. It plays a crucial role in facial expressions and functions, helping to keep food between the teeth while chewing. This muscle is also important for actions like blowing and sucking, as it helps to compress the cheeks. Anatomically, the buccinator originates from the maxilla and mandible, extending to the orbicularis oris, which encircles the mouth. It is innervated by the facial nerve, specifically the buccal branch. The buccinator is essential for activities such as playing wind instruments and is involved in speech production.