Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) – Diagnosis, Symptoms, and Treatment

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a condition that causes a burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, lips, or palate without an obvious cause. Proper diagnosis is essential to manage symptoms effectively.

Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome

Common signs of BMS include:

• A burning or scalding sensation in the mouth

• Dry mouth or altered taste

• Tingling or numbness in the tongue

• Pain that worsens throughout the day

• Sensitivity to hot, spicy, or acidic foods

Diagnosis of Burning Mouth Syndrome

There is no single test to diagnose BMS. Healthcare providers and dentists typically rule out other conditions before confirming the diagnosis. Steps may include:

• Medical history review to check medicines, health conditions, and oral care routines

• Oral examination to inspect the mouth for signs of infection or inflammation

• Blood tests to check blood sugar, thyroid function, vitamin levels, immune function, and other factors

• Oral cultures or biopsies to detect fungal, bacterial, or viral infections

• Allergy testing to determine reactions to foods, dental materials, or mouth care products

• Salivary flow measurements to evaluate dry mouth

• Gastric reflux tests to detect acid reflux into the mouth

• Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to rule out other health problems

• Medication review to identify drugs that may contribute to mouth discomfort

• Mental health evaluation to screen for depression, anxiety, or stress-related issues

Accurate diagnosis helps distinguish primary BMS, which has no identifiable cause, from secondary BMS, which results from underlying conditions.

Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome

Treatment depends on the type of BMS and the symptoms experienced.

Primary Burning Mouth Syndrome

There is no definitive cure for primary BMS, but several approaches can help manage discomfort:

• Saliva replacement products to reduce dry mouth

• Topical treatments such as lidocaine or special oral rinses for pain relief

• Capsaicin therapy derived from chili peppers to reduce nerve pain

• Alpha-lipoic acid as an antioxidant for nerve function

• Clonazepam or other medications to control nerve-related pain

• Certain antidepressants to manage pain and improve mood

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to cope with stress, anxiety, and ongoing discomfort

Secondary Burning Mouth Syndrome

For secondary BMS, treatment targets the underlying cause:

• Treating oral infections

• Correcting nutritional deficiencies with vitamins or minerals

• Adjusting or changing medications that may contribute to symptoms

Treating the root cause often relieves the burning sensation and improves overall oral health.

Tips for Managing Burning Mouth Syndrome

• Avoid spicy, acidic, or hot foods that can aggravate symptoms

• Stay hydrated to reduce dry mouth

• Practice good oral hygiene using mild toothpaste and alcohol-free mouth rinses

• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or counseling

Proper diagnosis and individualized treatment can significantly improve quality of life for those with burning mouth syndrome. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider or dentist are recommended to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.