If you’re experiencing pain or uncomfortable sensations in your mouth, the root cause may be Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS). This is a common condition, especially among women, but it can cause a huge amount of anxiety and discomfort. So, how can you tell if you have BMS, and why is it happening?
What is Burning Mouth Syndrome?
Burning Mouth Syndrome can cause a range of symptoms, but it’s usually characterised by a persistent burning or tingling sensation – feeling as if your mouth has been scalded. This can affect your tongue, lips, gums, throat, the back of your mouth, and the inside of your cheeks. Some people also notice a bitter or metallic taste, or a feeling of dryness in their mouth. The discomfort may be constant and chronic, or it may begin in the morning and worsen as the day goes on. We most often see BMS in menopausal or post-menopausal women, but it can also affect men.
What could be causing symptoms?
There are a number of factors that influence Burning Mouth Syndrome, so pinning down the cause usually involves a certain amount of investigative work. Diabetes, blood disorders, hormone imbalances, and psychological stress can all prompt BMS. It can also be caused by aggravating agents like allergies, infection, acidic reflux, or certain dental products. For others, a new medication may be the culprit.
We know from experience that not knowing why BMS is happening can be very stressful. It also has an ongoing impact on daily life, affecting your ability to eat, drink, and even speak, as you normally would. Finding the reason for your symptoms is the first step in tackling the problem, and giving you back a sense of control. It’s also common for people experiencing the sudden discomfort of BMS to worry about mouth cancer. In this case, setting your mind at ease is one of the most important things we can do.
Can you treat Burning Mouth Syndrome?
Often, Burning Mouth Syndrome can’t be completely cured – but this doesn’t mean you simply have to live with it. In fact, when left untreated, it can lead to secondary issues like sleep disturbances and depression or low mood. Treatment options for BMS vary according to the likely cause in your case. If nutritional deficiencies or blood disorders are to blame, supplements or medication may help. If you have an infection, treatment can quickly resolve the issue.
For some, low-dose antidepressants or anticonvulsant medication can make a big difference in how symptoms are managed. Every patient is unique, so the right treatment will always be tailored to your individual circumstances.
How to help yourself at home
In the meantime, there are certain things you can do at home to alleviate the symptoms of BMS and make yourself more comfortable.
We suggest that you:
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods;
- Sip water regularly;
- Suck on ice chips;
- Chew sugar-free gum;
- Avoid smoking;
- Switch to alcohol-free mouthwash.
These will soothe in the short term, but they’re not a cure in themselves.
Get yourself checked
If you’re worried, it’s best to book an appointment to see us. We’ll then schedule time with our specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Mr John Collin, who will carry out a thorough examination. Mr Collin will review your medical history, ask questions about your lifestyle, and – where needed – start the ball rolling with tests like allergy assessments or blood work. This will allow us to rule out other issues or conditions, and investigate the possible cause. And, if your BMS is worsened by factors like badly fitting dentures, you’ll be in the right place for us to correct problems.
Although we accept referrals from other dentists, you can also refer yourself for treatment. Our practice is based in a five-storey Georgian townhouse in Bristol’s city centre, making it very welcoming and easy to reach. Our team truly understands the impact of Burning Mouth Syndrome, so from your first contact with us, you’ll be supported and well cared for.