Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment

Burning mouth syndrome can be a difficult condition to treat. Primarily because there is a lot of uncertainty as to what causes the syndrome.

Burning mouth syndrome can be a sign of another condition, like an allergy or nutritional deficiency that may need treatment. If your child experiences a sudden burning sensation (with no clear cause) in or around the mouth (including the lips or gums), it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with a dentist, just in case.

Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome can last for months or even years. Treatment can mitigate the symptoms, but different symptoms require different treatments. It’s important to know the symptoms associated with the condition so you can figure out which ones are affecting your child and work with your dentist to develop a suitable treatment plan.

Symptoms of burning mouth syndrome include:

  • A burning sensation that affects the tongue, lips, gums, throat, or the entire mouth.
  • Dry mouth and increased thirst.
  • An unusual taste in the mouth, often bitter or metallic.
  • Loss of taste
  • Numbness inside the mouth

It’s worth noting that symptoms can come and go. Even if it seems like your child’s symptoms have ceased, you should book an appointment with a dentist.

How to Treat Burning Mouth Syndrome

There are things you can do at home to ease the discomfort associated with burning mouth syndrome. Remember, though, that the syndrome can signal an underlying condition, so you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your dentist, even if at-home treatments alleviate discomfort.

Treating Burning Mouth Syndrome at Home

These home remedies for burning mouth syndrome can help keep your child comfortable until they can see a dentist:

  • Avoid irritating foods, including mint, cinnamon, and spicy foods.
  • Limit acidic foods and drinks – oranges and orange juice, tomatoes and tomato juice, carbonated beverages, and so on.
  • Encourage your child to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Opt for a mildly flavored toothpaste, instead of one with a lot of mint or cinnamon.

Medical Treatments for Burning Mouth Syndrome

Your child’s treatment plan will be based on their particular symptoms. Your dentist may recommend one or several of the following treatments:

  • Saliva replacement products
  • Mouth rinses
  • Specialized medications

If your child has secondary burning mouth syndrome (burning mouth syndrome that’s caused by an underlying condition), your dentist may decide to work with your child’s physician to develop a treatment plan.

Looking for a dentist to treat burning mouth syndrome? Our Kool Smiles Kids Club partner dentists are ready to help! Find a location near you.