National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

What is the condition in which a pattern on the tongue changes?

1. Geographic tongue

2. White coating

3. Thrush

4. Fissured tongue

The correct answer is: Geographic tongue

Geographic tongue is characterized by the appearance of irregular, map-like patterns on the surface of the tongue. This condition is associated with areas of inflammation that can lead to the loss of papillae, resulting in smooth patches that create a pattern resembling geographical regions. The fluctuations in the pattern can change over time, moving from one area of the tongue to another, which is a hallmark of this condition. Geographic tongue is generally harmless and often does not require treatment but can sometimes cause mild discomfort or sensitivity to certain foods. In contrast, white coating usually refers to a buildup of bacteria, dead cells, or debris on the tongue and does not involve the distinct changing patterns like those seen in geographic tongue. Thrush is a fungal infection that can lead to white patches on the tongue and other oral surfaces, often requiring treatment. Fissured tongue involves cracks or grooves on the tongue's surface, but it does not exhibit the same dynamic pattern changes associated with geographic tongue.