Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What condition may result from a prolonged tetracycline use in a patient?

1. Stomatitis

2. Burning mouth syndrome

3. Oral thrush

4. Periodontitis

The correct answer is: Oral thrush

Prolonged use of tetracycline can lead to an overgrowth of Candida species in the oral cavity, resulting in oral thrush. Tetracycline antibiotics can disrupt the normal flora of the mouth, reducing the number of beneficial bacteria that help keep fungal populations in check. When these beneficial bacteria are diminished, it creates an environment where fungi, notably Candida albicans, can proliferate and cause an infection, characterized by white patches in the mouth, soreness, and difficulty swallowing. In contrast, conditions like stomatitis, burning mouth syndrome, and periodontitis are not directly linked to tetracycline use. Stomatitis refers to inflammation within the mouth, which can arise from various sources, but not specifically from prolonged tetracycline use. Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by burning sensations in the mouth, often idiopathic, and not directly tied to antibiotic treatment. Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and can lead to the deterioration of the bone supporting the teeth, often resulting from plaque buildup rather than antibiotic use. Given this context, oral thrush is the most relevant condition associated with prolonged tetracycline use.