The term “buccal” in dentistry refers to anything related to the inner surface of the cheek or the part of a tooth facing the cheek. This word originates from the Latin term “bucca,” meaning cheek or mouth. Understanding this area helps dental professionals pinpoint issues and aids patients in understanding their dental care.
Understanding the Buccal Area
The buccal region is located inside the oral cavity, spanning the area between the upper and lower jaws, extending from the lips towards the back of the throat. This space, also known as the oral vestibule, lies between the teeth and the inner lining of the lips and cheeks.
This region includes the buccal mucosa, the moist lining of the inner cheek that secretes mucus for lubrication. Beneath this lining are the buccal fat pads (Bichat’s fat pads), fatty deposits contributing to facial contours and expressions. Small clusters of salivary buccal glands also produce saliva that aids in digestion and oral hygiene.
The buccinator muscles, major cheek muscles, extend horizontally, responsible for facial expressions, chewing (mastication), speech, and swallowing. The buccal surface of teeth refers to the outer surface of posterior teeth (molars and premolars) facing the cheek. This surface is generally smooth, though lower molars sometimes have buccal pits.
Common Buccal Dental Concerns
Several issues and procedures relate to the buccal area in dentistry. Buccal exostosis are non-malignant bony growths on the outer surface of the jawbone, usually in the premolar and molar regions. These growths are typically painless but can cause aesthetic concerns, hinder oral hygiene, or trap food.
The buccal corridor refers to the dark space visible between the buccal surfaces of the upper teeth and the corners of the mouth when a person smiles. The size of this space influences smile aesthetics; minimal or medium buccal corridors are often considered more attractive. Orthodontic treatments, such as arch expansion, can widen the dental arch and reduce the buccal corridor, enhancing smile appeal.
The buccal frenum is a band of soft tissue that connects the gums to the inside of the cheeks, typically located near the premolars. If this frenum is overly restrictive, it can limit cheek and lip movement, potentially leading to difficulties with eating, speaking, or contributing to gum recession and tooth decay due to food accumulation. In infants, a restricted buccal frenum can interfere with breastfeeding.
Cavities or plaque buildup can occur on the buccal surfaces of teeth, particularly in pits or grooves where bacteria accumulate. These “buccal cavities” form when bacteria digest carbohydrates and produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Regular dental examinations identify these cavities, which may require fillings to restore tooth structure and prevent further decay.
Buccal nerve blocks are a common method of local anesthesia in dentistry. This procedure involves injecting an anesthetic solution near the buccal nerve, a branch of the trigeminal nerve, to numb the soft tissues of the cheek and gums adjacent to the lower molars. It is often administered with other nerve blocks, like the inferior alveolar nerve block, for comprehensive pain control during dental procedures.
Caring for Your Buccal Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is fundamental for buccal health. This involves specific brushing techniques to clean the buccal surfaces of your teeth and the inner lining of your cheeks.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, position it at a 45-degree angle against the gum line on the outer surfaces of your teeth. Gently move the toothbrush in small circular motions, ensuring it covers the entire buccal surface, especially where the tooth meets the gum. Regular flossing and interdental cleaning are also beneficial to remove plaque and bacteria that can accumulate in these areas. Avoiding excessive consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks helps prevent tooth decay and erosion on these surfaces.
Seek professional dental attention if you notice any persistent issues or unusual changes in your buccal area. Symptoms such as prolonged pain, swelling, redness, limited jaw movement, or new growths should prompt a visit to your dentist. Early detection and intervention can prevent minor concerns from escalating into more complex problems, preserving overall oral health.