Our Blog:
Archive:
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
- 2014
Tags
- celebrity smiles (63)
- cosmetic dentistry (11)
- bonding (2)
- periodontal disease (2)
- gum disease (14)
- oral health (17)
- osteoporosis (2)
- nightguard (1)
- grinding teeth (1)
- bleeding gums (1)
- dental implants (7)
- tooth decay (5)
- teeth whitening (4)
- crown (1)
- dental injuries (1)
- (1)
- oral hygiene (19)
- clear aligners (1)
- orthodontics (4)
- diabetes (2)
- orthodontic treatment (12)
- tooth extraction (1)
- periodontal surgery (1)
- dental hygiene (1)
- dental erosion (1)
- muscle frenum (1)
- wisdom teeth (4)
- snoring (2)
- sleep apnea (2)
- braces (8)
- tooth grinding (1)
- smile makeover (2)
- pediatric care (1)
- tmj disorders (1)
- tmd (1)
- chipped teeth (1)
- antibiotics (1)
- abscessed tooth (1)
- teeth wear (1)
- dentures (2)
- cosmetic gum surgery (1)
- dental emergency (1)
- dental injury (5)
- athletic mouthguards (1)
- nutrition (1)
- porcelain veneers (4)
- crowns (3)
- sedation dentistry (1)
- retainers (2)
- gum recession (4)
- teeth grinding (3)
- mouthguard (1)
- geographic tongue (1)
- dry mouth (1)
- burning mouth syndrome (1)
- thumb sucking (1)
- fluoride (2)
- pediatric dentistry (6)
- oral cancer (1)
- bad breath (2)
- x-rays (1)
- chipped tooth (3)
- tooth pain (2)
- retainer (1)
- toothbrush (1)
- periodontist (1)
- periodontal (gum) disease (1)
- gummy smile (1)
- root canal treatment (6)
- mouthguards (2)
- tooth wear (1)
- GERD (1)
- pregnancy (1)
- bonded retainer (1)
- apicoectomy (1)
- dental implant (3)
- bridge (1)
- teething (1)
Categories:
For some time now you've noticed a painful, burning sensation in your mouth for no apparent reason. It doesn't matter what you eat or drink — or whether you eat or drink — the dry, tingling sensation seems to stay with you.
You may have Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS). You feel as if your mouth is scalded or burning generally or in a certain area like the lips, tongue or inside of the cheeks. Regardless, the discomfort (which seems to grow as the day wears on) can contribute to irritability, anxiety or depression.
It's not always easy to lock in on the specific cause. BMS has been linked, among other things, to diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or cancer therapy. It's common among women around the age of menopause, so there's some speculation it could be affected by hormonal changes. It could also be connected with dry mouth (brought on by age or medications), an allergic reaction to toothpaste ingredients, acid reflux or autoimmune disorders.
While there's no single proven treatment for BMS, there are some things you can do to lessen its effects. First, stop habits that cause dry mouth like smoking, drinking alcohol or coffee and eating hot and spicy foods. Second, keep your mouth moist by frequently drinking water or using products that stimulate saliva flow.
You might also try toothpastes without sodium lauryl sulfate (a detergent that can cause skin peeling in some people), whiteners or strong flavorings like cinnamon. If you have chronic dry mouth, speak with your physician about any medications you're taking that might be causing it and seek alternatives. And because stress seems to magnify your symptoms, try to reduce it in your life through relaxation techniques, exercise or group support.
In some cases, BMS may resolve itself over time. In the mean time, making these lifestyle changes could help ease your discomfort.
If you would like more information on burning mouth syndrome, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also learn more about this topic by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Burning Mouth Syndrome: A Painful Puzzle.”