Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome

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Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome
Authored By: Allison DiMatteo
Reviewed By: Mahnaz Fatahzadeh, DMD

The treatment for burning mouth syndrome aims to alleviate symptoms. Burning mouth syndrome treatments include different medications traditionally used to relieve the underlying causes of other conditions, such as depression and chronic pain. Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline/Elavil), antipsychotics (chlordiazepoxide/Librium), anticonvulsants (gabapentin/Neurontin), analgesics, benzodiazepines (clonazepam/Klonopin) and mucosal protectors have provided effective relief for some patients.

In addition, topical capsaicin (the natural chemical in cayenne pepper) has been used to desensitize patients suffering from burning mouth syndrome.

However, despite the success of these approaches in certain situations, there is no universal treatment for burning mouth syndrome that is effective in all cases. Treatment is planned to meet the specific needs of each patient. The cost of treatment varies depending upon the medications prescribed (if any), how long they will be needed and whether or not medical and/or dental insurance will cover all or some of the costs.

Additional relief from the symptoms of burning mouth syndrome may be achieved by making some simple changes:

* Stop using mouthwash that contains alcohol.
* Stop using toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulfate.
* Chew sugarless gum, preferably sweetened with xylitol.
* Avoid alcoholic beverages.
* Use baking soda and water when brushing your teeth.
* Refrain from drinking beverages with high acidity (fruit juices, coffee, soft drinks).
* Abstain from tobacco use.
* Sip water or suck on ice chips.


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