Question: What can you tell me about burning mouth syndrome? I am a 74-year-old woman who has suffered with this condition for many years.
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Burning mouth syndrome describes a burning sensation of your tongue or mouth in the absence of any obvious cause. This syndrome is seen most commonly in women, especially after menopause. The symptoms typically evolve during the day, with symptoms often absent on awakening in the morning.
Associated conditions include diabetes, salivary gland dysfunction, nutritional deficiency, anxiety, and depression. Treatment is variable and need to be individualized, depending on the cause. Be sure you have seen your dentist for a complete oral hygiene evaluation, and if you have a plate or dentures, try going a day or so without using them just to be sure you are simply suffering irritation because of your cleansing solution.
Here are some self-help pointers to help you manage while your doctor determines which medicine (such as antibiotic, anti-depressant, sedative, nerve signal modulating medication, or anticonvulsant) may be most appropriate for you:
1) Avoid tobacco (chewing or smoking).
2) Steer clear from hot or spicy food or sauce products.
3) Don't use alcohol rinses or mouthwashes.
4) Take steps to manage stress.
5) Drink plenty of fluids and avoid carbonated drinks.
6) Avoid coffee, soft drinks, and acidic foods and drinks such as orange juice, grapefruit juice, tomatoes (including foods with tomato-based sauces).
7) Don't buy mint- or cinnamon-flavored products.
8) Change your toothpaste and consider a Sensodyne, for people with sensitive teeth and gums.
9) Stop all non-prescribed supplements.
10) Avoid unnecessary medication and use only prescribed medications.
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