Pathology · single question
What is the treatment of choice for black/coated hairy tongue?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Mechanical debridement (tongue scraping) and improved oral hygiene
- A. Correct. Hairy tongue (elongated filiform papillae) is managed by gentle tongue scraping/brushing and good hygiene; eliminating contributing factors (tobacco, certain rinses) helps.
- B. Antifungals are unnecessary unless candidiasis is superimposed.
- C. Excision is not indicated for a benign reactive condition.
- D. Steroids treat inflammatory/immune lesions, not hairy tongue.
Note: The source listed 'essential oils' because a hygiene/scraping choice was absent; the true first-line is mechanical debridement plus hygiene.