BURNING MOUTH SYNDROME

by Dr. Lawrence Wilson

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not for the diagnosis, treatment, prescription or cure of any disease or health condition.

Definition. This is a collection of symptoms having to do with the mouth. Usually, a person experiences a burning sensation of the tongue. However, there can be a burning sensation of the entire mouth, dryness of the mouth, changes in tastes such as a metallic taste, and loss of taste.

CAUSES

These can vary. Among the most common are:

1. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies. These can include many of the B-complex vitamins, zinc or iron. Deficiencies can develop due to a deficient diet, mainly.

2. Consuming irritating foods or beverages. These might include hot spices or chiles, too much coffee, or other irritants.

3. Certain medical drugs. In particular, drugs for high blood pressure.

4. Overbrushing the teeth, or using irritating mouthwashes or toothpastes.

5. Sensitivity to a food. This could be anything, in theory. Notice if the problem occurs after eating certain foods.

6. Diabetes or thyroid imbalances.

7. Other. More rarely, nerve damage, irritating denture creams, gastrointestinal reflux, or possibly psychological causes such as anxiety or depression.

CORRECTION

Review the list of causes above and make corrections. Usually, the problem will go away.

If it does not, I suggest a complete nutritional balancing program. This will deeply correct many biochemical imbalances that might cause the problem.

Courses | The Free Basic Program