Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What type of ulcers are described as recurrent and healing with scarring?

1. Minor aphthous ulcers

2. Major aphthous ulcers

3. Cold sores

4. Canker sores

The correct answer is: Major aphthous ulcers

Major aphthous ulcers are characterized as recurrent lesions that often take longer to heal than minor aphthous ulcers and may result in scarring. These ulcers are typically larger, painful, and deeper than their minor counterparts. The healing process can be prolonged and may leave behind scar tissue due to the extensive damage they cause to the oral mucosa. In contrast, minor aphthous ulcers generally do not lead to scarring, as they are smaller and heal more quickly. Cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus, do not fit the description as they are not primarily classified as ulcers, nor do they result in recurrent scarring in the same way. Canker sores is a term often used interchangeably with minor aphthous ulcers but does not refer to a specific type that heals with scarring. Thus, major aphthous ulcers are clearly defined by their recurrent nature and potential for significant healing complications, distinguishing them from the other choices presented.