What does the mouth former help achieve in embalming?

The mouth former is primarily used in embalming to shape the lips, ensuring a natural and lifelike appearance after the embalming process is complete. This is particularly important when preparing the body for viewing or burial, as it helps create a peaceful and restful expression, which is significant for the grieving family and friends. The mouth former is positioned in the mouth following the application of the embalming fluid, allowing the lips to maintain their desired shape while the tissues are preserved.

Other choices might address related aspects of embalming but do not specifically pertain to the crucial function of the mouth former. For instance, while eliminating odors is an important aspect of the overall embalming process, it is not the primary role of the mouth former. Similarly, aiding in tissue preservation relates to the embalming fluids themselves, rather than the function of a mouth former. Flushing out fluids is associated with the process of arterial injection and drainage rather than with shaping features on the body. Hence, the main purpose of the mouth former is to ensure the lips are adequately shaped for a dignified presentation.