Which muscle group is influenced by the buccal nerve?

The buccal nerve is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). Its primary function is to provide sensory innervation to the buccal mucosa and the skin of the cheek, as well as motor function to specific muscles in the area.

When considering the muscle group influenced by the buccal nerve, the muscles of the mouth are directly affected for several reasons. The buccal nerve innervates certain muscles that control facial expressions, the movement of the mouth, and other functions involving the cheeks. This includes muscles that play a significant role in chewing and speaking, as they support the actions necessary for these activities.

In contrast, muscles of the arm and leg are innervated by different nerves, such as the brachial plexus for the arm and the lumbosacral plexus for the leg. The muscles of the face, while they might seem like a valid choice, are primarily innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) rather than the buccal nerve specifically. Thus, the correct answer highlights the role of the buccal nerve in regulating those functions specifically related to the mouth.