Key points to know:

• Although anyone can get it, there are some burning mouth syndrome risk factors.
• Being a woman, especially an older woman, increases your risk.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Risk Factors

Despite not knowing what causes primary BMS, doctors do know that there are some people who have a higher risk of developing it. People who are:

• Born female
• Going through perimenopause or are post-menopausal
• Are older than 50
• Smokers

Risk factors for secondary BMS are related to the causes listed above plus these:

• Have an infection in your mouth
• Have allergies to foods or oral products
• Take certain types of medications, particularly those for high blood pressure
• Consume a diet that doesn’t provide enough of the necessary minerals or vitamins
• Have a medical condition that doesn’t allow your body to absorb necessary minerals or vitamins
• Have a medical condition that is known to trigger primary BMS in some people
• Have trauma to your mouth, and this includes ill-fitting dentures that may rub
• Live with depression, anxiety, or stress

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