Key points to know
- A lot still isn’t known about burning mouth syndrome.
- Having burning mouth syndrome can be very frustrating because what helps one person may not help another.
- Getting diagnosed with burning mouth syndrome is just the first step.
Burning Mouth Syndrome FAQs
Most of these questions are covered in throughout the website, but its also nice to have some quick answers all in one place. Here are some of the most common questions I’ve seen asked online, in support groups, and in general conversation.
What are symptoms of burning mouth syndrome?
There is really just one symptom of BMS, although some people may have extra signs and symptoms. It is a burning sensation on the oral mucosa, which means your tongue, cheeks, gums, lips, or palate. The pain is usually constant although some people feel it less at night. You might also experience a dry mouth or noticed that your sense of taste is different. Learn more about BMS symptoms here.
Is small fiber neuropathy the same thing as burning mouth syndrome?
There are some experts who believe that small fiber neuropathy is a third type of BMS, but it’s more likely that it can cause secondary BMS.
Is there any way to get instant relief from burning mouth syndrome?
Some people get some quick relief from burning mouth syndrome when they use medicated mouthwashes, but there are no other treatments that can provide instant relief from BMS pain. That said, some at-home treatments, like using a numbing agent (Orajel, for example) could be helpful for some people. The relief is temporary though, lessening as the product wears off. Read more about BMS treatments here.
Are there medications that cause burning mouth syndrome?
Some medications can cause secondary burning mouth syndrome, specifically some that are used to treat high blood pressure. Read more about BMS causes here.
How long does burning mouth syndrome last? Does burning mouth syndrome go away?
Just as burning mouth syndrome appears out of the blue, it can also disappear. Some research shows that up to half of people with BMS will see a partial improvement within 6 or 7 years after they started feeling the burning sensation. For some, it will go away completely. But for many, the pain never goes away.
Are there any celebrities with burning mouth syndrome?
I can’t find any mention of any celebrities with burning mouth syndrome.
What type of doctor is a burning mouth syndrome specialist?
There are no doctors who specialize in treating burning mouth syndrome. It’s one of those conditions that doesn’t fall into one particular specialty. Oral pathologists, specialists in oral and jaw pain, might be the best bet, but some dentists, ENT physicians, neurologists, and even dermatologists may know something about it.
How do I find a burning mouth syndrome specialist near me?
It’s not easy to find a real burning mouth syndrome specialist, let alone someone in your area. You will likely have a better chance if you live in a big city or near large healthcare systems. When I’m doing research for specific specialists in a certain area, I type the illness’s name into a search engine, along with “specialists in [city].”
What vitamin deficiency can cause burning mouth syndrome?
Some people with secondary burning mouth syndrome have deficiencies in one or more of these:
- Iron
- Zinc
- Vitamin B9 (folate)
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
- Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)
Is there special toothpaste for burning mouth syndrome?
There are no special toothpastes for burning mouth syndrome, but you may want to experiment with different types because some may be less painful for you. Look for toothpaste that doesn’t have mint, for example. Some people feel better using toothpaste marketed for sensitive teeth.
Do women get BMS more often than men?
Yes, burning mouth syndrome affects more women than men. Read more about BMS risk factors here.
What causes burning mouth syndrome?
No one knows why people develop primary BMS but there are identifiable causes for secondary BMS. Learn more about BMS causes here.
Are there any burning mouth syndrome risk factors?
Yes, there are some BMS risk factors, but you don’t have to have them to develop it, unfortunately. Go to the BMS risk factors page to learn more.
Is burning mouth syndrome a psychological problem?
Burning mouth syndrome is not a psychological problem. That said, stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues can make BMS pain worse. That’s why doctors often suggest therapy or counseling for people living with BMS.
Are there any burning mouth syndrome medications?
There are some medications that may help you manage the burning pain from BMS. Some are topical, like magic mouthwash, while others are systemic (you swallow them), like some antidepressants. Learn more about BMS medical treatments here.
Are there any burning mouth syndrome home remedies?
There are many remedies that people have tried to help ease their BMS pain. Some may work for you. Go to this page to learn about some BMS home remedies.
Is there a burning mouth syndrome diet?
There is no specific burning mouth syndrome diet. People with BMS have to experiment to see what foods worsen their burning pain and what foods they can tolerate. Typically, spicy and acidy foods are the worst for BMS, as are carbonated drinks and things that are hot or can scratch – like toast.
