The term “buccal” describes anything related to the cheek or the inside of the mouth. This anatomical term finds common use in various fields, including medicine, dentistry, and even cosmetic procedures.
Understanding the Buccal Area
The buccal area refers to the inner lining of the cheeks, extending to the tissues surrounding the teeth and gums. This lining, the buccal mucosa, is a mucous membrane covering the inside of the mouth. The buccal mucosa is characterized by its soft, moist nature and rich blood supply.
It assists in speaking, chewing food, and the initial stages of swallowing. The soft and permeable nature of the buccal mucosa is due to its non-keratinized epithelial tissue, making it distinct from other parts of the oral cavity that are more resistant to abrasion.
Key Applications of Buccal Administration
The buccal area’s unique properties make it suitable for drug administration. Buccal administration involves placing medication between the cheek and the gum, where it dissolves and absorbs directly through the buccal mucosa into the bloodstream. This method bypasses the digestive system, avoiding first-pass metabolism in the liver. This can lead to a more direct entry of the drug into the systemic circulation and potentially a faster onset of action for some medications.
Buccal drug delivery offers several advantages for patients. It is a convenient option for individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills, such as children or the elderly, or those experiencing nausea. The ability to remove the medication if adverse effects occur provides an added layer of control. Medications commonly administered buccally include certain pain medications like fentanyl, nicotine replacement therapies, and some hormonal treatments such as testosterone. Midazolam, an anticonvulsant, can also be given buccally to treat acute epileptic seizures.
Beyond drug delivery, the term “buccal” is also used in other contexts. In dentistry, the “buccal surface” refers to the side of a tooth that faces the cheek. This is particularly relevant for the premolars and molars. In cosmetic procedures, “buccal fat removal” is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the fullness of the cheeks by removing pads of fat located in this region, aiming to create a more defined facial contour. These diverse applications highlight the significance of the buccal area in both health and aesthetics.