Potential causes of a burning tongue include burns and scalds, certain medications, oral infections, and acid reflux. When this symptom is persistent, it is known as burning mouth syndrome (BMS).

BMS is a relatively uncommon condition that can cause a sensation of burning in the mouth, and may affect the tongue. There are several known causes of BMS, but the reason for its onset can be unclear.

BMS can also cause tingling, and it may occur alongside a dry mouth or altered sense of taste. Treatment may help improve symptoms over a period of weeks or months.

In this article, we look at the causes of a burning tongue and discuss home remedies and medical treatments for BMS.

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Some people with a burning tongue may have scalded their mouth with a hot drink or piece of food. In cases where there is no injury, though, a possible explanation is burning mouth syndrome (BMS), or glossodynia.

There are two types of BMS: primary and secondary. Primary BMS occurs on its own, possibly as a result of nerve damage. Secondary BMS is the result of another condition.

Potential causes of BMS include:

In some cases, though, the cause of BMS is unclear.

Potential BMS symptoms include:

  • a continuous burning or scalding sensation in the mouth
  • tingling or numbness, which may come and go
  • dry mouth
  • altered sense of taste

Usually, the pain is mild to moderate. Sometimes, people notice it improves when eating or drinking. The symptoms may come on gradually or appear suddenly.

When BMS affects the tongue, it usually causes burning on the back two-thirds of the tongue. In addition, people may experience discomfort in the:

  • lips
  • gums
  • throat
  • roof of the mouth
  • inside of the cheeks

It is also possible to have symptoms that affect the whole mouth.

A 2017 review of past research says that BMS is more common in those over 60 and rare in people under 40, and is five times more frequent in women than men.

Because BMS is rare in females not going through perimenopause or menopause, scientists believe that hormonal changes may be a significant reason why BMS affects older females more than other groups.

Many people manage BMS by using home remedies. It may help to:

Take fluids and ice

The pain of BMS sometimes improves when eating or drinking. To alleviate symptoms, people can drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day, or suck on ice chips.

Doing this will also reduce the sensation of dry mouth and may temporarily mask bad tastes.

Avoid problematic foods and drinks

Some people may find that certain foods make their BMS symptoms worse. It may help to limit or avoid:

  • acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits
  • acidic drinks, including citrus juices, sodas, and coffee
  • alcohol and products containing alcohol
  • spicy foods

Change dental hygiene products

Oral health products, including toothpaste and mouthwashes, can sometimes irritate the lining of the mouth. People with BMS may benefit from:

  • trying unflavored toothpaste that is suitable for sensitive mouths
  • avoiding mouthwash that contains alcohol
  • avoiding scrubbing the tongue

Quit smoking

Smoking tobacco or vaping could irritate the delicate skin inside the mouth. It is best to avoid all products that contain tobacco or nicotine.

Reduce stress

There is an association between BMS and mental health conditions, such as depression. It could be that depression alters pain perception, but BMS could also be stressful in itself, and cause distress in people who were otherwise well.

In either case, it is important to be self-compassionate and to reduce stress where possible. People who feel persistently stressed, anxious, or low should speak with a doctor or therapist.

Seek support

It may be helpful to seek support and advice from others with BMS or chronic pain.

Doctors usually diagnose BMS by ruling out other medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms. They may also run tests to try and find an underlying cause.

Treatment can vary depending on whether the BMS is primary or secondary. There is no known cure for primary BMS, and there is also no consensus on treatment among medical professionals. As a result, people may need to try different things to see what works for them.

A doctor may recommend:

  • oral rinses
  • pain medications
  • talk therapy, if the person is experiencing distress due to the condition

Treatment for secondary BMS generally focuses on managing the underlying condition, if possible. Depending on the cause, this could include:

  • adjusting the medications a person takes
  • treating nutrient deficiencies
  • using mouth guards or splints to prevent bruxism
  • taking medications to treat infections or hormone imbalances
  • receiving support for mental health conditions

There is no guaranteed way to prevent all cases of BMS. Individuals may be able to reduce their risk by:

  • avoiding tobacco
  • ensuring that dentures fit correctly
  • limiting or avoiding alcohol
  • managing other health conditions

However, there are no studies proving that these measures work. More research on BMS prevention is necessary.

BMS can get better on its own, particularly if there is an underlying cause that doctors can treat. Sometimes, primary BMS goes away spontaneously, too.

Others have chronic BMS that lasts for months or years. BMS does not typically cause complications, but it is possible that people with the condition may experience:

  • anxiety or depression
  • difficulty eating due to pain
  • sleep problems

There is no link between BMS and the development of oral cancer.

People with persistent or recurring burning pain the mouth should speak with a doctor for a diagnosis. They can help to develop a treatment program for symptom relief.

A burning tongue that is not due to an injury or scald could be a sign of burning mouth syndrome (BMS). Primary BMS may be the result of nerve pain or damage, while secondary BMS can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from allergies to cancer treatment.

BMS can get better on its own, or if doctors address the underlying cause. In the meantime, there are ways of reducing the pain, such as sucking ice, avoiding smoking and other irritants, and trying medical options, such as pain medications.

BMS may affect, and also has associations with, depression symptoms. People who are struggling can reach out to a doctor or therapist for support. It may also help to join support groups with others experiencing the same thing.