Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What is the recommended treatment for black hairy tongue?

1. Antibiotics and antifungals

2. Rinsing with mouthwash

3. Good oral hygiene and use of a tongue scraper

4. Topical steroids

The correct answer is: Good oral hygiene and use of a tongue scraper

The recommended treatment for black hairy tongue primarily involves improving oral hygiene and using a tongue scraper. This condition, often caused by a buildup of keratin on the filiform papillae of the tongue, can be exacerbated by poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain medications, and factors that reduce saliva flow. Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing of the tongue, help remove the accumulated debris and bacteria, thereby reducing the dark coloration and restoring a healthier appearance. The use of a tongue scraper specifically targets the surface of the tongue, effectively reducing the keratin buildup and promoting a cleaner oral environment. In contrast, the other options, such as antibiotics and antifungals, are not indicated as the primary treatment for black hairy tongue since it is not caused by a fungal or bacterial infection. Rinsing with mouthwash may provide temporary relief and a fresher taste, but it does not address the underlying cause. Topical steroids are used to reduce inflammation in some oral conditions, but they are unnecessary for black hairy tongue, which is not primarily inflammatory in nature. Thus, the most effective and recommended remedy centers around enhancing oral hygiene practices.