Burning mouth syndrome

Overview

The burning often starts mid-morning and gets worse through the day. The mouth looks normal.

Dry mouth, low vitamins, yeast, reflux, and some medicines can cause similar burning and should be checked.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Burning mouth
• Burning feeling in the mouth or tongue

Less common

• Dry mouth
• Taste changes

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerves.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women after menopause

Diagnosis

Tests rule out causes.

Treatment

Ease it.

Self-care

• Sip cold water
• Avoid spicy foods
• Sip cold water or suck ice chips
• Avoid cinnamon, mint, and acidic foods
• Use mild toothpaste

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to a dentist or an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
• Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women after menopause: Most common.

Outlook

Manageable.

Symptoms often improve over time.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Should my vitamins or blood sugar be checked?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Burning mouth syndrome