National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Which condition is not typically associated with soft tissue considerations related to prosthesis use?

1. Angular cheilitis

2. Stomatitis

3. Traumatic ulcers

4. Geographic tongue

The correct answer is: Geographic tongue

Geographic tongue is characterized by irregular, map-like patches on the tongue's surface, which can appear as varying colored areas and may affect the filiform papillae. This condition is thought to be idiopathic, and while its exact etiology is not fully understood, it is not directly linked to the use of dental prostheses. In contrast, conditions such as angular cheilitis, stomatitis, and traumatic ulcers are typically associated with soft tissue complications that can arise from prosthesis use. Angular cheilitis can occur at the corners of the mouth due to moisture accumulation and irritation, often exacerbated by ill-fitting dentures. Stomatitis represents a broader category of inflammatory conditions of the oral mucosa, frequently linked to the presence of dentures or other prosthetic devices, especially if there is inadequate oral hygiene or inflammation. Traumatic ulcers can develop from mechanical irritation caused by sharp edges of dental appliances or ill-fitting restorations. Thus, while geographic tongue may present in individuals regardless of whether they wear prostheses, the other conditions are more directly correlated with the complications stemming from prosthetic devices, highlighting the relationship between oral health and the use of dental prosthetics.