Burning mouth syndrome is a term for the chronic or recurring feeling of burning in the mouth with no obvious cause. This discomfort can affect the hums, tongue, inside of your cheeks, lips, the roof of your mouth, or large areas of your entire mouth. The sensation can feel like a severe scald on the mouth.
This syndrome usually appears very suddenly, however, it’s also possible for it to develop over time. It’s usually difficult to determine the specific cause of burning mouth syndrome but working closely with your dentist can help reduce symptoms and discomfort.
There are many symptoms of burning mouth syndrome, such as:
- Increased thirst along with the constant sensation of dry mouth
- burning inside of lips
- A scalding or burning sensation that affects your tongue, lips, hums, throat, palate, or entire mouth.
- A change of taste in your mouth—metallic or bitter taste
- Loss of taste
- Numbness, stinging, or tingling in your mouth
There are many different patterns for burning mouth syndrome. The discomfort may be a daily occurrence, not being a major problem as you wake but getting worse throughout the day. It can also start as soon as you wake and last the entire day or come and go at any time.
Whatever pattern you suffer from, burning mouth syndrome can last anywhere from a couple of months to multiple years. Symptoms can suddenly disappear on their own or become less frequent in rare cases or get temporary relieved when you’re eating or drinking.
If you’re suffering from burning or soreness in your mouth, work together with our experienced dentists to develop a treatment plan as soon as possible.
While the syndrome is uncommon, you may have a greater chance of developing it if you:
- Are a female
- Are peri or postmenopausal
- Are above the age of 50
- Have had a recent illness
- Suffer from chronic medical disorders like Parkinson’s disease, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, or autoimmune disorders
- Are allergic to certain foods
- Have started taking new medication
Are suffering from anxiety, depression, or stress
While there are no surefire ways of preventing burning mouth syndrome, avoiding tobacco, spicy foods, acidic foods, carbonated beverages, and excessive stress can help you reduce the discomfort and prevent it from getting any worse.