Burning Mouth 

Syndrome 

Improving the Nation’s Oral Health 

National Institute of Dental 

and Craniofacial Research 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS 

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a painful, frustrating condition often described 

as a scalding sensation in the tongue, lips, palate, or throughout the mouth. 

Although BMS can affect anyone, it occurs most commonly in middle-aged or 

older women. 

BMS often occurs with a range of medical and dental conditions, from nutritional 

deficiencies and menopause to dry mouth and allergies. But their connection 

is unclear, and the exact cause of burning mouth syndrome cannot always be 

identified with certainty. 

Moderate to severe burning in the mouth is the main symptom of BMS and can 

persist for months or years. For many people, the burning sensation begins in 

late morning, builds to a peak by evening, and often subsides at night. Some 

feel constant pain; for others, pain comes and goes. Anxiety and depression 

are common in people with burning mouth syndrome and may result from their 

chronic pain. 

Other symptoms of BMS include: 

•		 tingling or numbness on the tip of the tongue or in the mouth 

•		 bitter or metallic changes in taste 

•		 dry or sore mouth. 

CAUSES There are a number of possible causes of burning mouth syndrome, including: 

•		 damage to nerves that control pain and taste 

•		 hormonal changes 

•		 dry mouth, which can be caused by many medicines and disorders such as 

Sjögren’s syndrome or diabetes 

•		 nutritional deficiencies 

•		 oral candidiasis, a fungal infection in the mouth 

•		 acid reflux 

•		 poorly-fitting dentures or allergies to denture materials 

•		 anxiety and depression. 

In some people, burning mouth syndrome may have more than one cause. But for 

many, the exact cause of their symptoms cannot be found. 
DIAGNOSIS
 A review of your medical history, a thorough oral examination, and a general medical 

examination may help identify the source of your burning mouth. Tests may include: 

•		 blood work to look for infection, nutritional deficiencies, and disorders associated 

with BMS such as diabetes or thyroid problems 

• oral swab to check for oral candidiasis 

•		 allergy testing for denture materials, certain foods, or other substances that may 

be causing your symptoms. 

TREATMENT
 Treatment should be tailored to your individual needs. Depending on the cause of 

your BMS symptoms, possible treatments may include: 

•		 adjusting or replacing irritating dentures 

•		 treating existing disorders such as diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, or a thyroid 

problem to improve burning mouth symptoms 

•		 recommending supplements for nutritional deficiencies 

•		 switching medicine, where possible, if a drug you are taking is causing your 

burning mouth 

•		 prescribing medications to 

—	 relieve dry mouth 

—	 treat oral candidiasis 

—	 help control pain from nerve damage 

—	 relieve anxiety and depression. 

HELPFUL TIPS 

When no underlying cause can be found, treatment is aimed at the symptoms to try 

to reduce the pain associated with burning mouth syndrome. 

You can also try these self-care tips to help ease the pain of burning mouth syndrome. 

•		 Sip water frequently. 

•		 Suck on ice chips. 

•		 Avoid irritating substances like hot, spicy foods; mouthwashes that contain 

alcohol; and products high in acid, like citrus fruits and juices. 

•		 Chew sugarless gum. 

•		 Brush your teeth/dentures with baking soda and water. 

•		 Avoid alcohol and tobacco products. 

Talk with your dentist and doctor about other possible steps you can take to minimize 

the problems associated with burning mouth syndrome. 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH 

AND HUMAN SERVICES 

National Institutes of Health 

National Institute of Dental and 

Craniofacial Research 

NIH Publication No. 08-6288 

Reprinted June 2008 

For additional copies of this fact sheet contact: 

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research 

National Oral Health Information Clearinghouse 

1 NOHIC Way 

Bethesda, Maryland 20892–3500 

(301) 402–7364 

http://www.nidcr.nih.gov

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