HOSA Dental Terminology Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Glossitis is characterized by inflammation of the tongue, which can result in various symptoms, including swelling, change in color, and a smooth appearance of the tongue's surface. This condition can arise from various factors such as infections, allergies, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions. The inflammation may lead to discomfort and pain, which are common symptoms, but the defining feature of glossitis is the inflammation itself. This makes inflammation the key characteristic associated with glossitis, aligning with the correct answer.

The other options represent different conditions or symptoms not directly related to the core definition of glossitis. While pain can accompany glossitis, it is not the primary condition; instead, it is a symptom of the inflammation. Herpes simplex is a viral infection that primarily affects the lips rather than the tongue, and defective development of tissue refers to congenital or developmental issues that do not specifically pertain to inflammation of the tongue.