The main characteristic of Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a burning pain in the mouth, occurring every day for months or even longer. Other symptoms may include numbness, dry mouth and an altered taste in the mouth.
There is no simple way to test and diagnose BMS. We will first collect your medical history. Depending on what that is, you may require several medical tests. We will likely also enlist the support of your family doctor or a specialist.
BMS has been categorized into two types. Experts believe that Primary BMS happens when the nerves responsible for mouth pain and taste buds are injured in some way. Secondary BMS stems from certain medical conditions like allergies, dry mouth, diabetes, thyroid conditions, acid reflux, a lack of Vitamin B or as a side effect of certain medications. The purpose of gathering your medical history and testing is to weed out these possible causes. If we discover that one of these is the cause, you will likely be diagnosed with Secondary BMS. If nothing is conclusive, you will most likely be diagnosed with Primary BMS.
You will almost certainly be prescribed pain medication. Please take it only as directed. If you have Secondary BMS, the medical condition that caused your BMS will be treated. If you experience pain and for whatever reason cannot take your medication, you can offer yourself temporary reprieves by drinking cold beverages, sucking on ice chips or chewing sugarless gum. Tobacco, hot and spicy food, alcoholic beverages, mouthwash, and acidic products may all irritate your condition, so avoid them for now. Dr. Stephen Huber can give you other advice.
If you believe you have Burning Mouth Syndrome, your first stop should likely be a primary care physician. However, Dr. Stephen Huber and our expert dental team at Stephen Huber in Leawood, Kansas can also help you with diagnosis and treatment. Call us at 913-543-3751 for more information today!