Summary about Disease
Burning mouth syndrome (BMS), also known as burning tongue syndrome, scalded mouth syndrome, or glossodynia, is a chronic condition characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth, typically affecting the tongue, lips, gums, palate, or throat. It can occur without any visible signs of inflammation or abnormalities. It is often described as feeling like the mouth is scalded or burned.
Symptoms
The primary symptom is a burning sensation, most commonly on the tongue, but it can also affect the lips, gums, inside of the cheeks, throat, or palate. Other symptoms may include:
A tingling or numbness sensation in the mouth
Dry mouth
Increased thirst
Altered taste perception (bitter or metallic taste)
Soreness in the mouth
Difficulty sleeping
Causes
The causes of BMS are often divided into two categories:
Primary (Idiopathic) BMS: The underlying cause is unknown. It may be related to nerve damage in the mouth or changes in how the brain perceives pain.
Secondary BMS: This is caused by an underlying medical condition. Potential causes include:
Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12, iron, folate)
Dry mouth (xerostomia) - caused by medications, Sjögren's syndrome, or radiation therapy
Oral infections (e.g., candidiasis/thrush)
Allergies to dental materials or foods
Acid reflux (GERD)
Diabetes
Hormonal changes (menopause)
Certain medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors)
Psychological factors (anxiety, depression)
Habits such as tongue thrusting, teeth grinding (bruxism), or mouth breathing
Medicine Used
Treatment for BMS focuses on managing symptoms, especially when the cause is unknown. Medications that might be prescribed include:
Topical treatments:
Capsaicin cream (to desensitize nerves)
Clonazepam lozenges (to reduce nerve activity)
Lidocaine mouthwash (for temporary pain relief)
Systemic medications:
Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline) - used to manage nerve pain
Anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin) - also used for nerve pain
Alpha-lipoic acid (antioxidant)
Anxiolytics (for anxiety)
Supplements:
B vitamins If secondary BMS is diagnosed, the underlying medical condition is treated.
Is Communicable
Burning Mouth Syndrome is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Precautions that may help manage symptoms and potentially reduce their severity include:
Avoiding irritants:
Spicy foods
Acidic foods and drinks (citrus fruits, tomatoes, carbonated beverages)
Alcohol
Tobacco products
Mouthwashes containing alcohol
Maintaining good oral hygiene:
Gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Flossing regularly
Staying hydrated:
Sipping water frequently
Chewing sugar-free gum (to stimulate saliva production if dry mouth is a problem)
Stress management techniques:
Relaxation exercises
Meditation
Counseling
Identifying and avoiding potential allergens (foods, dental products)
How long does an outbreak last?
BMS is typically a chronic condition, meaning the symptoms can persist for months or years. The duration of symptoms varies greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience continuous burning sensations, while others have intermittent episodes. There isn't a typical "outbreak" in the sense of an infection, but rather a persistent or recurring condition. The symptoms can fluctuate in intensity over time.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of BMS typically involves:
Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will ask about symptoms, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. A thorough examination of the mouth is performed to rule out other conditions.
Ruling out other causes:
Blood tests (to check for nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, thyroid problems)
Salivary flow rate test (to assess for dry mouth)
Allergy testing
Oral swab or culture (to check for oral infections)
Biopsy (in rare cases, to rule out other oral conditions)
Diagnosis of exclusion: If no underlying cause is found after thorough investigation, a diagnosis of primary BMS may be made.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of BMS can be sudden or gradual. The progression of symptoms varies.
Onset: Can be abrupt or develop slowly over time.
Location: Symptoms can start in one area and spread or involve multiple areas simultaneously.
Intensity: The burning sensation may be mild, moderate, or severe.
Fluctuations: The intensity of symptoms can fluctuate throughout the day. For some, the burning sensation is worse in the evening.
Duration: Symptoms can persist for months or years.
Important Considerations
BMS can significantly impact quality of life, affecting eating, sleeping, and social interactions.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional (doctor or dentist) for proper diagnosis and management.
Treatment is often focused on managing symptoms, as the underlying cause is not always identifiable.
Psychological support (counseling or therapy) may be beneficial for some individuals, especially if anxiety or depression are contributing factors.
There is no single cure for BMS, and finding the right treatment approach may require experimentation and patience.