Burning Mouth Syndrome Mysterious But Treatable

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Burning Mouth Syndrome Mysterious But Treatable
Article Date: 15 Apr 2006

Burning gums and a "thick" tongue that impedes speech are symptoms of what is commonly called "burning mouth syndrome." The disorder, one of the most mysterious conditions dentists treat, tends to affect women more than men, especially women going through menopause.

"We're not exactly certain what causes burning mouth syndrome, but we have seen some correlation between this disorder, yeast infections and allergies to different foods or products in the mouth," said Jackie Plemons, D.D.S., M.S., associate professor of periodontics and assistant director of the Stomatology Center at the Baylor College of Dentistry-Texas A&M Health Science Center.

The disorder may also occur in patients with type 2 diabetes and individuals taking some heart medicines or antibiotics.

Burning mouth syndrome often can be resolved through changes in diet or by treating yeast infections, if they are present, Dr. Plemons said. If neither tactic works, doctors may prescribe antidepressants or other medications designed to address symptoms caused by nerve issues.

Baylor College of Dentistry