Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

Burning tongue is often associated with what condition in diabetics?

1. Nerve damage

2. Malnutrition

3. Poor oral hygiene

4. Medications

The correct answer is: Malnutrition

Burning tongue syndrome, also known as glossodynia, can often be linked to a variety of factors, especially within the context of diabetes. In this case, the association with malnutrition is significant. Diabetic patients may experience nutrient deficiencies, especially concerning vitamins such as B12, iron, and folate, which are crucial for maintaining proper oral health and nerve function. Malnutrition can contribute to burning sensations on the tongue due to a lack of essential nutrients necessary for the repair and maintenance of mucosal tissues. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to changes in the tongue's texture and may result in discomfort, including a burning sensation. In diabetics, the management of nutrition and blood glucose levels is pivotal, and any imbalance can negatively impact their overall health, including oral health. The other factors, while they may contribute to oral conditions, are less directly associated with the burning sensation experienced in this scenario. Nerve damage, for example, tends to lead to different symptoms such as numbness or tingling rather than burning. Poor oral hygiene can cause various oral health issues but does not specifically lead to burning tongue symptoms, and while medications can cause side effects that affect the tongue, malnutrition in the context of diabetes is more directly correlated with the burning sensation