Burning Mouth Syndrome

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Burning Mouth Syndrome
September 2004

Burning Mouth Syndrome

Have you ever had a patient complain of suffering from a burning sensation in or around their mouth? While this may sound like a relatively uncommon problem, many doctors have heard consistent complaints from patients suffering from these distinct symptoms. Based upon these complaints, doctors have labeled the condition ìburning mouth syndrome.î Studies have concluded that, surprisingly, it is not an uncommon condition at all, with five percent of the adult population suffering from it.
Burning mouth syndrome usually affects post-menopausal women, although men are not entirely excluded as sufferers. Whether male or female, sufferers typically experience similar symptoms which can include a scalding sensation in the mouth or other parts of the oral cavity, dry mouth, or a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. In addition, most patients report that these symptoms tend to gradually worsen throughout the day.
While research has been conducted to determine the exact cause of burning mouth syndrome, doctors have found that there may be many contributing factors. Due to the vast array of potential causes, treatment is issued to patients on an individual basis, usually after several tests have been conducted to narrow down the potential causes.
Many of the potential causes of burning mouth syndrome, including dry mouth, tongue-thrusting, teeth-clenching, over-brushing and ill-fitting dentures are likely to become apparent to a dentist. In addition, some other common causes of burning mouth syndrome and their suggested treatments include:

Dry mouth - this condition can be related to Sjogren's syndrome, aging or use of certain medications. Treatment: drink more fluids or a doctor can prescribe a medication that promotes the flow of saliva.

Hormonal imbalances, such as those associated with menopause - changes in hormones, such as those occurring during menopause, may affect the composition of saliva. Treatment: hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) may be used to balance hormone levels, yet patients may experience serious side effects from the HRT and should consult their doctor before considering this option.

Oral habits ñsuch as tongue-thrusting and teeth-clenching, which can irritate the mouth and can be a possible indicator of someone suffering from an anxiety disorder. Treatment: reduce stressful situations or consult a dentist to help combat the damage caused by these habits. Or consult your doctor if you think you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Nutritional deficiencies ñ deficiencies in iron, zinc, folate (vitamin B-9), thiamin (vitamin B-1), riboflavin (vitamin B-2), pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and cobalamin (vitamin B-12) may affect oral tissues. Treatment: nutritional supplements can be taken to correct deficiencies.

Nerve disturbance or damage (neuropathy) - damage to or dysfunction of nerves in the head associated with taste. Treatment: a doctor may prescribe medication that will help to control the pain.

Allergies - allergies or reactions to foods, food flavorings, other food additives, fragrances, dyes or other substances. Treatment: avoid foods that stimulate symptoms.

Oral Yeast Infection - chronic low-grade infections such as oral yeast infection (thrush) Treatment: oral antifungal medications can be taken to clear up infection.

Irritating dentures - dentures can place stress on some of the muscles and tissues of the mouth. Treatment: a dentist may replace ill-fitting dentures or adjust current dentures to fit properly.

Reflux of stomach acid (gastroesophageal reflux disease) - the sour- or bitter-tasting fluid that enters the mouth from the throat. Treatment: a doctor may prescribe medication to treat acid reflux or suggest a special diet or eating pattern.

Psychological factors - emotional disorders, particularly depression and anxiety. Treatment: a doctor may refer sufferer to a specialist for a psychological examination and/or therapy.

Medications - angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, used to treat high blood pressure, may cause side effects that include burning mouth. Treatment: a doctor may prescribe an alternate medication if available.

Diabetes and hypothyroidism - oral tissues may react to high blood sugar levels that occur with diabetes. Treatment: a doctor can treat these conditions to ease the symptoms of burning mouth syndrome.

Excessive oral irritation - excessive tongue brushing, mouthwash overuse or consuming too much acidic fluid, such as colas, coffee, fruit juice etc. Treatment: drink acidic fluids in moderation, brush the tongue less frequently or avoid overusing mouthwash.

Burning mouth syndrome is a serious problem for many, and because of the constant pain it causes some people, depression and other psychological problems can develop over time. The best way for patients to reduce the symptoms of burning mouth syndrome is to consult a medical professional who can prescribe the best form of treatment or refer patients to a specialist. While the exact cause of burning mouth syndrome is still unknown, with continued research and awareness of the condition, there is hope for those who suffer.