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Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) can affect people differently. Some people feel continuous pain every day. Others have described an increase of pain throughout the day.

BMS usually affects the top of the tongue, lower lip, and roof of the mouth.

A few of the symptoms associated with BMS are:

  • Pain in the mouth similar to burning, scalding, stinging or a feeling of numbness
  • Dry, gritty feeling in mouth
  • Change in taste buds

Two Types of Burning Mouth Syndrome

BMS has been broken down into Primary BMS and Secondary BMS. 

Primary BMS is when there are no clinical or lab explanations. Research suggests that this type of BMS is caused by damage to the nerves in charge of pain and taste.

Secondary BMS is caused by a medical condition. Usually treating these issues can fix Secondary BMS.

Some common causes of Secondary BMS are:

  • Diabetes and thyroid problems
  • Hormonal changes
  • Allergies
  • Dry mouth
  • Certain medicines
  • Acid reflux
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Mouth infection

Who Has Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Close to five percent of Americans are affected by BMS. While uncommon, the chance of getting BMS is higher if you are:

  • A woman
  • Postmenopausal
  • In your 50s-70s

A few risk factors of BMS are:

  • Upper respiratory tract infection
  • Allergic reactions to foods
  • Traumatic life events
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

How to Treat BMS

Treatment for BMS depends mainly on the cause. Finding the reason for burning mouth can include a physical exam and review of medical history, as well as blood tests, allergy tests, and a mouth swab.

Addressing any underlying issues is one way dentists can fight BMS. Patients can also help themselves by drinking water regularly and chewing sugar free gum.

Do Children Have BMS?

Though children are usually not at risk for BMS, it is still important to teach them the values of good dental health early. Doing that can possibly prevent the onset of problems, such as BMS, later on.

Cure Burning Mouth Syndrome Symptoms at Kool Smiles

Kool Smiles is a dentistry with a focus on caring for children. We teach children and parents preventative care, and our friendly representatives are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Give us a call today for more information or to make an appointment for your child.

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Sources:

Share Care, Inc.:https://www.sharecare.com/health/childrens-oral-health/are-children-risk-burning-mouth

Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/burning-mouth-syndrome/basics/causes/con-20029596

Everyday Health: http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/how-to-manage-burning-mouth-syndrome.aspx