munvinkel

Munvinkel is the Norwegian and Danish term for the corner of the mouth, the point where the upper and lower lips meet. In English, this region is commonly referred to as the angle of the mouth or the labial commissure (commissura labiorum). It is an important anatomical landmark in facial anatomy, expression, and aesthetics.

Anatomy: The munvinkel is formed at the junction of the lips and is bounded by the orbicularis oris muscle. Several facial muscles influence its position and movement: levator anguli oris elevates the corner, depressor anguli oris lowers it, risorius draws the corner laterally, and the zygomaticus major/minor contribute to smiling. The buccinator supports the region laterally. At the corner lies the modiolus, a fibromuscular node where multiple muscles converge, providing structural anchorage for the commissure and contributing to its dynamic control during facial expression.

Function and clinical relevance: The munvinkel plays a key role in facial expression, speech, and oral competence. Its shape and elevation affect smile aesthetics and lip seal. In clinical practice, the corners of the mouth may be altered through reconstructive or cosmetic procedures, such as techniques to lift or restore the commissure, or through targeted botulinum toxin or filler treatments to address asymmetry or drooping. Injury or facial nerve palsy can produce drooping of the mouth corner, impacting symmetry and function.

Variation and measurement: The position and contour of the munvinkel vary with age, sex, ethnicity, and facial dynamics. It is often described in relation to adjacent facial landmarks and the angular movements of the surrounding muscles.

See also: labial commissure, commissura labiorum, modiolus, orbicularis oris, levator anguli oris, depressor anguli oris.