Buccal space

The buccal space is the area between the cheek and gums, or between the teeth and the buccal mucosa or buccal membrane. Certain medications are designed to be given bucally (as opposed to orally or sublingually). Buccal (as opposed to oral) administration usually results in a more rapid onset of action, since the medication need not pass through the digestive system and can be absorbed directly through the skin. There is current research on developing buccal morphine and fentanyl, as well as insulin. (See Buccal nerve.)