Burning Mouth Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Binota singh , Dentists

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Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a condition that causes a sensation of burning in the Mouth. Possible symptoms include throat pain, changes in taste, etc.

The term "burning mouth syndrome" refers to recurring burning sensations in the Mouth that have no apparent reason. The tongue, gums, lips, inside of the cheeks, or entire Mouth may be affected.

People suffering from BMS frequently say that the burning worsens throughout the day, and the pain may decrease as they fall asleep.

Burning mouth syndrome manifests itself immediately but can also develop gradually over time. Unfortunately, the exact reason is frequently unknown.

Along with the burning sensation, a bitter or metallic taste is typical. Many people have a dry mouth while having normal saliva flow. The burning can sometimes be so intense that the persistent discomfort creates depression and anxiety.

What Are the Different Types of Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) can be classified into two main types, depending on its cause. Knowing the kind helps doctors plan the proper treatment.

Primary (Idiopathic) BMS

• No specific reason is found for the burning sensation
• This may be due to nerve-related issues
• Often seen in women after menopause

Secondary BMS

The Secondary BMS Caused by other health problems like:

• Lack of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid
• Diabetes or thyroid issues
• Allergies to dental materials or toothpaste
• Mouth infections or dryness

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What Are the Burning Mouth Syndrome Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) can affect each person differently. Some feel a mild burning sensation after eating spicy food, while others think intense discomfort lasts all day. Early recognition of symptoms can help in timely diagnosis and treatment.

Common Symptoms

• Burning sensation, especially on the tongue, but can also affect lips, gums, palate, or inner cheeks
• Dryness in the Mouth along with frequent thirst
• Changes in taste: sweet foods may taste bitter or metallic
• Numbness or tingling in the Mouth
• Discomfort or mild pain in the throat
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing food

How the Symptoms May Appear?

• Pain starts in the morning and stays constant throughout the day.
• Mild in the morning but increases as the day goes on
• Comes and goes with no fixed pattern
• If you notice these symptoms for more than a few days, it's best to consult a doctor.

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What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Burning Mouth Syndrome?

The specific cause of the Burning Mouth Syndrome condition is still unclear. A burning feeling or symptom in the Mouth can be caused by or be a sign of several oral and systemic disorders, and they must be checked before a diagnosis can be made.

Some factors contributing to the condition are as follows:

Nutritional deficiencies

Iron, folate, and vitamin B complex deficits have been linked to a burning feeling in the Mouth. As a result, some treatment approaches have included B vitamins and mineral supplements such as zinc and iron.

Dry Mouth (xerostomia)

Some medications like antipsychotics, Sjogren's syndrome, and other factors can induce dry Mouth and the associated burning feeling. Drinking liquids throughout the day and addressing the source of dry Mouth may help to decrease or eliminate the unpleasant sensation.

Oral Candidiasis (Oral Thrush)

A burning feeling in the Mouth is a sign of this oral fungal infection, especially when acidic or spicy meals are consumed, or cottage cheese-like lesions are scraped off the interior of the Mouth. Your dentist's treatment approach for oral thrush can help alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

Risk Factors of Burning Mouth Syndrome

BMS risk factors include

• Gender: Females are up to seven times as likely as males to develop BMS.
• Age: Because older adults are more likely to wear dentures and have other underlying health conditions, they are at a higher risk of BMS.
• Being postmenopausal: Women who have had menopause are more vulnerable. According to the researchers, BMS affects postmenopausal ladies.

Other Risk Factors

• Food allergies
• Wearing dentures
• Taking specific medications
• Having severe medical conditions
• Being anxious or stressed

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How Burning Mouth Syndrome is Diagnosed?

No single test can identify whether you have burning mouth syndrome. Before diagnosing burning mouth syndrome, the doctor will check out other possible causes. Your doctor will also most likely undertake a basic medical checkup to search for symptoms of different diseases. You may be subjected to some of the following tests:

• Blood tests: Blood tests can evaluate the complete blood count, glucose level, thyroid function, dietary variables, and immunological function, all of which can reveal information regarding the cause of your oral discomfort.
• Oral cultures or biopsies: Oral cultures or biopsies Taking and analyzing saliva samples can reveal if you have a fungal, bacterial, or viral illness.
• Allergy testing: The doctor may recommend allergy testing to determine if patients are allergic to specific foods, additives, or compounds used in dental procedures.
• Salivary measurements: The Mouth may feel dry if you have burning mouth syndrome. Salivary testing can determine if you have a decreased salivary flow.
• Gastric reflux tests: Gastric reflux testing can help identify whether someone has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Imaging: The doctor may order an MRI, CT scan, or other imaging tests to rule out other health issues.
• Medication adjustment:
• Take medications that may cause mouth irritation. The doctor may adjust the dose, switch to a different drug, or temporarily discontinue the prescription to see if the pain subsides.
• Discontinuing certain medications can be risky, so it's best not to attempt it yourself.

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What are the Treatment Options for Burning Mouth Syndrome?

The burning mouth condition is not specifically curable. Treating the symptoms is the best course of action. The symptoms, seriousness, and underlying cause will affect how you are treated. Possible courses of action include:

• Products to produce saliva and relieve dry Mouth
• Vitamin supplements to provide nutrition
• Ointments to relieve pain
• Depression or anxiety medicines to relieve pain and improve your nervous system
• Your doctor may advise switching to a different medication if they believe the one you're taking is the source of your BMS.

Your doctor can advise trying oral thrush medications, B vitamin supplements, or antidepressants if they cannot identify the underlying reason. These are effective in treating BMS.

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When to See a Doctor for Burning Mouth Syndrome?

If you experience a burning or tingling sensation in your Mouth that persists for more than a few days, it's essential to seek medical advice. Delaying treatment may lead to more discomfort or complications.

Visit a Doctor If You Have

• Burning or pain in the Mouth lasting more than 7 days
• Change in taste or dry Mouth that keeps coming back
• Trouble swallowing or speaking properly
• Discomfort that gets worse as the day progresses

High-Risk Groups Who Should Not Delay

• Women over 40, especially postmenopausal
• People with diabetes, thyroid problems, or vitamin deficiencies
• Those using dentures or with recent dental procedures

At Medicover, our ENT and dental specialists collaborate to identify the precise cause of your symptoms and provide the appropriate treatment to deliver lasting relief.

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What Is the Recovery Process After Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment?

Recovery from Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) varies from person to person, depending on the underlying cause and the timing of treatment initiation. While some patients respond quickly, others may take several months to experience complete relief.

Follow-Up Schedule

• Regular follow-ups every 2&4 weeks initially to monitor progress
• Blood tests or vitamin checks may be repeated if needed
• Long-term monitoring if the symptoms return

Lifestyle and Diet Tips

• Avoid spicy, acidic, or very hot foods and beverages
• Maintain good oral hygiene with mild, non-alcoholic mouthwash
• Stay hydrated and keep sipping water
• Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or relaxation exercises
• Avoid tobacco and limit caffeine intake

Long-Term Outlook

With proper diagnosis and treatment, many patients experience significant improvement or complete relief from their symptoms. For others, managing the condition with long-term support and regular check-ups can help keep symptoms under control.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Prevention

There may be no way to avoid BMS. However, you may reduce the severity of the symptoms by avoiding anything that irritates your Mouth, including

• Drinking alcohol.
• Eating acidic foods and beverages (like citrus juices).
• Foods and drinks that are hot and spicy.
• Alcohol-containing mouthwash
• Products containing tobacco.

Also, ensure that your diet has adequate amounts of vitamin B12, folate, and iron.

Complications

Burning mouth syndrome is a disease that can hurt your quality of life. It may take several doctor's appointments to determine what's wrong. The pain might endure for months or even years.

Some people are troubled daily. The pain may make you depressed, agitated, or anxious, making it difficult to do everyday tasks and sleep. Any persistent discomfort might generate worry, which is known to disrupt sleep.

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Care at Medicover Hospitals

We have a team of exceptional general physicians and specialists at Medicover hospitals who treat Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) and its severe symptoms.

Our highly trained physicians utilize the most up-to-date diagnostic techniques and procedures to run tests and diagnose and treat Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS).

Our experts work closely with patients to monitor their health and treatment progress, aiming to achieve a faster and more sustained recovery.

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