The primary trait of Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic fiery pain of the mouth. Other symptoms may include numbness, dry mouth and an altered sense of taste.
There is no easy way to officially diagnose BMS. The first thing to do is gather your medical history. You may also require several medical tests. We will possibly enlist the support of your family doctor or a specialist.
BMS is separated into two categories: primary and secondary bms. Experts believe that Primary BMS is caused by damage to the nerves responsible for mouth pain and taste buds. Secondary BMS is caused by certain medical conditions, such as long-term hormonal changes, allergies, dry mouth, certain medicines, a lack of Vitamin B, or acid reflux. The purpose of gathering your medical history and testing is to weed out these conditions. If we discover that you have any of them, you will probably be diagnosed with Secondary BMS. If nothing is conclusive, you will likely be diagnosed with Primary BMS.
You will almost certainly be offered pain medication. Please take it as directed. Other treatments will depend upon the source of your BMS. 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. Hot and spicy food, alcohol, tobacco, mouthwash, and acidic products may all aggravate your condition, so avoid them for now. Dr. Scott Howe can give you other advice.
If you suspect Burning Mouth Syndrome, your first stop may be a primary care physician. However, Dr. Scott Howe and our expert dental team at Riverfront Dental LLC in Salem, Oregon can also help you with diagnosis and treatment. Phone us at 503.370.7651 for more information today!