Burning mouth syndrome can be an unpleasant and even painful dental condition. You can take a good guess as to what the sensation feels like based on the name. If you’ve ever burned your mouth by eating or drinking something that was scalding hot, imagine that feeling on a regular basis and for no obvious reason. Sensations of burning in patients with BMS can be felt on the tongue, the roof of the mouth, the gums, inside cheeks, and at the back of the mouth and/or throat. Your Farmington Hills dentist, Dr. Aziza Askari, will tell you more about burning mouth syndrome.
What Causes BMS?
You may also hear BMS referred to as burning tongue syndrome, scalded mouth syndrome, glossodynia, or stomatodynia. While burning is the most common sensation described, some patients report tingling, numbness, a bitter taste, or dryness in the mouth. BMS causes can vary, but related conditions include:
Diabetes
Nutritional deficiencies
Tongue thrusting
Dry mouth
Acid reflux
Reaction to cancer therapy
Psychological issues
Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome
Burning mouth syndrome is more common in women after menopause. Your Farmington Hills dentist can confirm a diagnosis of BMS and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Simple solutions such as more hydration, saliva-replacement products, or antifungal medications may be prudent. To try and quell issues, you can avoid habits such as gum chewing, tobacco use, drinking soda or other acidic beverages, and using mouthwash. You might consider trying a different toothpaste, or perhaps switching medications if you think that a prescription might be causing your BMS. In rare cases, more serious disorders (such as oral cancer) can be the cause of burning feelings in your mouth. Dr. Askari can determine if a biopsy or other further tests are prudent in your case.