Burning Mouth Syndrome

Underlying problems that may be linked to secondary burning mouth syndrome include:

• Dry mouth (xerostomia), which can be caused by various medications, health problems, problems with salivary gland function or the side effects of cancer treatment
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of iron, zinc, folate (vitamin B-9), thiamin (vitamin B-1), riboflavin (vitamin B-2), pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and cobalamin (vitamin B-12)
• Allergies or reactions to foods, food flavorings, other food additives, fragrances, dyes or dental-work substances
• Reflux of stomach acid (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) that enters your mouth from your stomach
• Certain medications, particularly high blood pressure medications
• Oral habits, such as tongue thrusting, biting the tip of the tongue and teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Excessive mouth irritation, which may result from overbrushing your tongue, using abrasive toothpastes, overusing mouthwashes or having too many acidic drinks
• Psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression or stress
• Oral candida (yeast infection of mouth)
• Hormonal deficiencies or abnormalities
• Tobacco use
• Use of ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzymes)

Lifestyle and home remedies

In addition to medical treatment and prescription medications, these self-help measures may reduce your symptoms and your mouth discomfort:

• Drink plenty of fluids to help ease the feeling of dry mouth, or suck on ice chips
• Avoid acidic foods and liquids, such as tomatoes, orange juice, carbonated beverages and coffee
• Avoid alcohol and products with alcohol, as they may irritate the lining of your mouth
• Don’t use tobacco products
• Avoid spicy-hot foods
• Avoid products with cinnamon or mint
• Try different mild or flavor-free brands of toothpaste, such as one for sensitive teeth or one without mint or cinnamon
• Take steps to reduce stress

Coping and support

Consider some of these techniques to help cope with the chronic discomfort of burning mouth syndrome:

• Practice relaxation exercises, such as yoga
• Engage in pleasurable activities, such as physical activities or hobbies, especially when you feel anxious
• Try to stay socially active by connecting with understanding family and friends

Prevention

There’s no known way to prevent burning mouth syndrome. But by avoiding tobacco, acidic foods, spicy foods and carbonated beverages, and excessive stress, you may be able to reduce the discomfort from burning mouth syndrome or prevent your discomfort from getting worse.

Home Remedies

Some of the simplest home remedies can actually bring almost instantaneous relief to the BMS sufferer. They are as uncomplicated as sucking on ice, keeping one’s mouth moist by sipping extra water, and increasing daily intake of certain foods. Eating “plain” food and lots of boiled vegetables is a good place to start. Foods high in Vitamin B need to be included in the menu.

Meat, brown rice, fish, wheat germ, whole grain cereals, and soybeans are all great sources of Vitamin B. Also, foods rich in iron such as red meats, liver, cashews, figs are recommended additions, especially in cases where the underlying condition may be anemia. Adding certain fresh fruits and vegetables to a healthy diet can also help.

Applying glycerin to the tongue has been reported to bring relief, as has eating honey with milk. It seems the combination increases the blood flow to the tongue which encourages a healthier response from the pain neurons.

More Homeopathic Remedies

Another homeopathic treatment involves applying lavender oil to the tongue and leaving it there over night. Lavender oil is actually a powerful antiseptic. Some doctors recommend topical Capsaicin, a cream pain reliever made from chili peppers. Its purpose is to desensitize the tongue and mouth from the burning sensations.

There are simple lifestyle choices that can also make a difference in reducing the pain from BMS. Sugar-free gums will keep the mouth and tongue moist. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco are also important. Both smoking and chewing tobacco can be problematic if BMS is diagnosed.

Ironically, while the doctor may have prescribed Capsaicin cream for your tongue, it is best not indulge in spicy foods because of added irritation within the mouth. Others to avoid include acidic foods and liquids such as some fruit juices. Eliminating soft drinks and coffee are important changes to one’s diet as well.

How Can I Treat BMS Naturally?

In addition to medical support, you can implement a number of lifestyle or home remedies as well as natural treatments to remedy burning mouth syndrome. Some of the most effective treatment options include vitamin B, alpha-lipoic acid, baking soda, and dietary changes. Drinking extra water and eating ice chips are also good “instant relievers” for the condition.

Vitamin B

According to NaturalRemedies.org, burning mouth syndrome is often a result of vitamin deficiency. One of the most commonly deficient nutrients associated with the condition is vitamin B, so boosting your intake of the nutrient is an effective way to treat the condition. You can take a daily supplement or add additional natural sources of the nutrient to your diet. Meat, brown rice, fish, wheat germ, whole grain breads and cereals, and soybeans are all good sources of vitamin B.

Alpha-Liopic Acid

A study in the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine supports alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as an effective remedy for burning mouth syndrome. This nutrient is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body against free radicals. It also helps recover the function of your nerve cells and prevent further damage. For the best results, take 600mg of ALA twice a day.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another effective treatment option as it helps neutralize the environment in your mouth. This substance helps balance your pH and alleviates various symptoms associated with acidity in your body. Baking soda also helps fight infection and overgrowth of yeast in your mouth. Employ this remedy by brushing with baking soda or gargling with a combination of 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda in 6 to 8 ounces of water.

Honey

Honey is another treatment option supported by NaturalRemedies.org. This treatment helps soothe your mouth and also helps fight infection. Try applying honey directly to your tongue and allow it to sit for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing.

Lavender

Lavender is another effective remedy for BMS. This treatment helps soothe pain and reduce inflammation. It also helps calm your senses and reduce stress. For the best results, take 40 mg of lavender oil by mouth twice a day.