The expected appearance of the oral mucosa in a light-skinned adult is

The expected appearance of the oral mucosa in a light-skinned adult is:

1. Pinkish-red, smooth, and moist
2. Light pink, rough, and dry
3. Cyanotic, with rough nodules
4. Deep red, with rough edges

ANSWER

ANS: 1
Normal mucosa in a light-skinned adult is glistening, pinkish-red, soft, moist, and smooth. Oral mucosa may appear more dry in an older adult because of reduced salivation but is not rough. Cyanotic mucosa with rough nodules would be an abnormal finding. Oral mucosa should not appear deep red with rough edges in a light-skinned adult.