Cells lining the inside of cheeks are called as stratified squamous epithelium. They are the surface of the mucous membrane. These flat, scale-like buccal cells are shed constantly as the tissue is renewed. By gently scraping the inside of the cheek, these cells can be harvested and observed under a microscope.

1. 029 BUCCAL SMEAR
Cells lining the inside of cheeks are called as stratified squamous epithelium.
They are the surface of the mucous membrane. These flat, scale-like buccal
cells are shed constantly as the tissue is renewed. By gently scraping the
inside of the cheek, these cells can be harvested and observed under a
microscope.
MATERIALS REQUIRED
Slides, cover slips, tap water & microscope
Paper towel, or absorbent paper
0.3% Methylene Blue or Ink

2. stain
buccal smear
cover slip
glass slide
Gently scrap the inside of the cheek with your own nail or a toothpick or swab.
Transfer on a clean glass slide. Place a drop of 0.3% methylene blue on the
specimen. Let stain for 1 minute. Rinse off the excess stain with slow addition
of tap water. Blot dry the preparation with paper towel or absorbent paper.
Place a cover slip over the stained cells and observe under the low power of
the microscope.

3. squamous epithelium
Observe your preparation under the
low power of a microscope.
squamous epithelium
a single magnified cell