Linea alba (cheek)

Linea alba (Latin for white line) is also a term used in dentistry to describe a horizontal streak on the mucosal surface of the cheek, level with the occlusal plane. It usually extends from the commissure to the posterior teeth and can be found with similar markings near the inner lip mucosa and corners of the mouth.

It is a common finding and most likely associated with pressure, frictional irritation, or sucking trauma from the facial surfaces of the teeth. It can also be found in indiviuals who chew tobacco, and can be mis-diagnosed as a lesion.