The cheeks, also known as buccae, form the sides of the face and consist of multiple layers. Here's a breakdown of their structure:
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Outer Layer (Integument): This is the skin that you see on the outside.
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Inner Layer (Mucous Membrane): This is the lining on the inside of the cheek, bordering the oral cavity.
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Middle Layer: This layer resides between the skin and the mucous membrane, and it is composed of:
- Muscular Stratum: Primarily the buccinator muscle, which is crucial for actions like chewing and whistling.
- Fat: Provides cushioning and shape to the cheeks.
- Areolar Tissue: Connective tissue that supports the other structures.
- Vessels: Blood vessels that supply nutrients and remove waste.
- Nerves: Provide sensory and motor functions.
- Buccal Glands: Small salivary glands that secrete saliva into the mouth.
In essence, the cheek structure is a complex arrangement of skin, muscle, fat, connective tissue, glands, nerves, and blood vessels working together to perform various functions.
