A buccal swab is a minimally invasive procedure used to collect DNA samples from the cells lining the inside of the cheek. The stratified squamous cells collected during this procedure are typically superficial, meaning they reside in the outermost layer of the epithelium.
The reason a buccal swab shouldn’t cause bleeding lies in the nature of the tissue being sampled. The inside of the mouth contains a protective layer of tissue that is designed to withstand friction and minor disturbances, which reduces the likelihood of injury or bleeding.
During the swabbing process, a soft, sterile cotton or foam tip is used to gently scrape the inner cheek. This technique is effective for collecting cells without penetrating deeper layers of tissue that contain blood vessels. As a result, the procedure is not only safe but also comfortable for the individual.
If done correctly, there should be no significant trauma to the underlying tissues that would lead to bleeding. It’s worth noting that if an individual has conditions like gum disease or is on anticoagulant medication, they may be more prone to bleeding under various circumstances. However, under typical conditions, a well-executed buccal swab is designed to be a painless and bloodless method of collecting DNA.