HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term is directly linked to inflammation of the tongue?

1. Glossalgia

2. Glossitis

3. Hypoplasia

4. Frenectomy

The correct answer is: Glossitis

The term directly linked to inflammation of the tongue is "glossitis." It is derived from the Greek word "glossa," meaning tongue, and "itis," which indicates inflammation. In glossitis, the tongue may become swollen, red, and painful, often leading to alterations in texture and color. The condition can result from various causes, including infections, allergic reactions, nutritional deficiencies (such as iron or B vitamins), and systemic diseases. Recognizing and understanding glossitis is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment in the field of dentistry, as it can affect a person's ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral hygiene. In contrast, glossalgia refers to tongue pain rather than inflammation, hypoplasia pertains to underdevelopment of tissues or organs, and frenectomy is the surgical removal of the frenulum, which is unrelated to tongue inflammation.