Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

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What is an effective treatment for oral fungal infections caused by Candida species?

Chlorhexidine mouthwash
Fluconazole
Amoxicillin
Metronidazole

The correct answer is: Fluconazole

Fluconazole is an effective treatment for oral fungal infections caused by Candida species due to its ability to inhibit the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. By interfering with the production of ergosterol, fluconazole effectively disrupts the integrity of the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death and helping to clear the infection. Fluconazole is particularly indicated for conditions such as oral thrush, which is commonly associated with Candida overgrowth, especially in immunocompromised individuals. In contrast, chlorhexidine mouthwash is primarily an antimicrobial rinse effective against a range of bacteria but not indicated specifically for fungal infections. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic targeting bacterial infections, and it does not possess antifungal properties. Metronidazole is another antibacterial agent, primarily targeting anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa, making it ineffective against fungal infections as well. Thus, fluconazole stands out as the frontline treatment for addressing oral infections due to Candida species.