Burning mouth syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a painful condition. It is often described as a burning, scalding or tingling feeling in the mouth that occurs frequently, often every day, for months or longer. The feeling is more common on the tip, sides and top of the tongue, the roof of the mouth and the lips.

Dry mouth or an altered taste may come with the pain. BMS can be hard to diagnose, partly because the burning can occur even when the mouth looks healthy and blood tests are normal. Other oral or medical conditions can also cause a burning feeling, so your dentist or doctor will rule those out first.

Researchers believe BMS is caused by damage to the nerves in the mouth that control pain and taste. See a dentist or doctor if you have a lasting burning feeling. See also dry mouth and oral thrush.