Question

During oral cancer self-examination, all of the following conditions indicate to the client a significant deviation from normal that requires a dental examination, EXCEPT one. Which one is the EXCEPTION?

1) An 8 × 1-mm scar between the borders of the philtrum
2) 20-mm maximum opening of TMJ
3) Dry and cracked lips
4) Prominent palatal duct openings of salivary glands
5) Right palatine tonsil enlarged in the oropharyngeal area

Answer 1

An 8 × 1-mm scar between the borders of the philtrum would not typically require a dental examination as it is likely the result of a previous injury and not an active disease, whereas the other conditions listed may indicate oral pathology.

Step-by-step explanation:

During an oral cancer self-examination, the condition that does not indicate a significant deviation from normal which requires a dental examination is an 8 × 1-mm scar between the borders of the philtrum. This is likely to be the EXCEPTION as scars are typically the result of healing from a previous injury and not necessarily an indication of an active disease process. On the other hand, restrictions such as a 20-mm maximum opening of the TMJ, dry and cracked lips, prominent palatal duct openings of salivary glands, and an enlarged right palatine tonsil are more concerning signs that could indicate oral pathology or systemic conditions requiring professional assessment.