Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is an uncommon neuropathic pain condition that presents as a burning sensation in the absence of any obvious findings in the mouth and in the absence of abnormal blood tests.
The cause of BMS is unknown. It is a neuropathic pain condition, which means that for some reason nerve fibers in the mouth are functioning abnormally. It is most commonly seen in post menopausal women but there has been no relationship established between hormonal changes and BMS.
You may have BMS if you have one or more of these clinical features:
Dr. Ram, the specialist in this area, will listen to your history and perform a thorough clinical evaluation including a cranial nerve exam and any necessary radiographs or scans or MRI and will provide a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your condition.
There are no good treatments available for burning mouth. In a few cases the burning could be due to a yeast infection of the mouth. In this case anti-fungal medications will provide relief. Unfortunately most cases are caused by nerve damage and this is difficult to treat. Some of the mediations used will include benzodiazepines like clonazepam, anticonvulsants like neurontin or topical anesthetics like lidocaine mouth rinses.