What are the Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome and the Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic and often distressing condition characterized by burning, itching, or stinging sensations in the mouth, without any visible signs of oral lesions or underlying medical conditions. This condition can affect the tongue, lips, gums, palate, and entire oral cavity, and it may also cause a change in taste perception, dry mouth, and a sensation of a foreign body in the mouth.

The exact cause of BMS is still not well understood, but several factors have been associated with the development of this condition, such as:

Nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron

Hormonal changes, particularly in menopausal women

Psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, or stress

Medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or diuretics

Allergic reactions to dental materials, food, or oral care products

Infections, such as oral thrush or candidiasis

Dry mouth (xerostomia), which can be caused by medications, radiation therapy, or Sjögren’s syndrome

Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome

The main symptom of BMS is a persistent burning, itching, or stinging sensation in the mouth, which can range from mild to severe and can last for a few minutes to several hours. Other common symptoms of BMS include:

Change in taste perception, with a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth

Dry mouth and increased thirst

Sensation of a foreign body in the mouth

Pain or discomfort while eating or speaking

Loss of appetite

Fatigue and insomnia

Diagnosis and Treatment of Burning Mouth Syndrome

The diagnosis of BMS is based on the characteristic symptoms and the absence of any visible oral lesions or underlying medical conditions. Your dentist or doctor may perform a physical examination of your mouth, check your oral hygiene, and order blood tests to rule out nutritional deficiencies, infections, or other medical conditions.

The treatment of BMS is based on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms, and it may include the following:

Management of underlying medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or psychological factors

Avoidance of triggering factors, such as spicy foods, alcohol, or smoking

Use of over-the-counter topical or oral medications, such as antacids, antifungals, or topical numbing agents

Use of mouth rinses, such as baking soda or salt solutions, to relieve dryness and discomfort

Vitamin and mineral supplementation, especially if you have a deficiency

Referral to a mental health professional for counseling or stress management

Behavioral therapies, such as hypnotherapy or biofeedback, to reduce anxiety and stress

Conclusion

Burning Mouth Syndrome is a chronic and often distressing condition that affects the oral cavity and can cause a persistent burning, itching, or stinging sensation, dry mouth, and changes in taste perception. The exact cause of BMS is still not well understood, but it has been associated with several factors, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, psychological factors, and medications. The diagnosis of BMS is based on the characteristic symptoms and the absence of any visible oral lesions or underlying medical conditions. The treatment of BMS is based on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms, and it may include the management of underlying medical conditions, avoidance of triggering factors, use of medications, vitamin and mineral supplementation, referral to a mental health professional, and behavioral therapies.