The inside of a cheek, also known as the buccal mucosa, contains a thin lining of squamous cells. This lining is a mucous membrane that is constantly moist and lubricates the inside of the mouth. Several things can be found within or affect this area:
Structures and Tissues
- Buccal Mucosa: The primary component is the inner lining itself, a delicate membrane responsible for keeping the mouth moist. This is confirmed by multiple sources including the National Cancer Institute (https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/buccal-mucosa), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/mouth/types-mouth/inner-cheek-cancer-buccal-mucosa), and Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23423-buccal-mucosa-inner-cheek-cancer).
- Nerves: The buccal nerve provides sensation to the cheek area (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheek).
- Blood Vessels: A network of blood vessels provides the tissue with nourishment.
- Salivary Glands: Minor salivary glands contribute to saliva production, keeping the mouth moist.
- Muscle Tissue: Buccinator muscles, located within the cheeks, play a role in facial expression and chewing.
Potential Issues and Conditions
- Mouth Ulcers (Canker Sores): These commonly appear on the inside of the cheeks (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/symptoms-causes/syc-20370615, https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh3707, http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/mouth-ulcers).
- Buccal Mucosa Cancer: Cancer can develop in the lining of the cheek (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23423-buccal-mucosa-inner-cheek-cancer, https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/mouth/types-mouth/inner-cheek-cancer-buccal-mucosa, https://www.dentalhealth.org/mouthaware).
- Traumatic Injuries: Accidental biting or other injuries can occur.
- Other Conditions: Non-cancerous tumors and other conditions can also affect the buccal mucosa (https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/oral/what-is-oral-cancer/non-cancerous-tumours).
