Oral Burning Syndrome: What It Is and How to Manage It

When you hear about Oral Burning Syndrome, a persistent feeling of burning, tingling or scalding inside the mouth without an obvious dental cause. It’s also called burning mouth syndrome, and it can make eating, drinking and even talking uncomfortable.

Oral Burning Syndrome isn’t a one‑size‑fit condition. It shows up when several factors collide, and understanding those links helps you find relief faster.

Key Factors Behind Oral Burning

One of the most common companions is GERD, gastro‑esophageal reflux disease, where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and sometimes reaches the mouth. The acid can irritate the soft tissues, triggering that burning sensation. Many people notice the symptom gets worse after a big, spicy meal or when they lie down at night. Treating the reflux with lifestyle changes or medication often eases the mouth pain.

Another frequent player is dry mouth, known medically as xerostomia. Saliva acts like a natural cleanser; when production drops, the tongue and palate become more vulnerable to irritation. Common causes include certain antihistamines, antidepressants, or simply breathing through the mouth while sleeping. Boosting hydration, chewing sugar‑free gum, or using saliva‑substitutes can lessen the burning feel.

Nutritional gaps, especially a lack of vitamin B12, also show up in many cases. Low B12 can affect nerve function, leading to abnormal sensations in the mouth. A simple blood test can confirm the deficiency, and a short course of supplements often brings noticeable improvement.

Food allergies intersect with all of the above. When an allergic reaction triggers inflammation in the throat or raises stomach acid, the mouth may respond with a burning flare‑up. Identifying trigger foods—like citrus, nuts, or certain additives—through an elimination diet can cut down episodes dramatically.

The collection below gathers practical advice, medication reviews and lifestyle tips that address each of these angles. Whether you’re looking for diet tweaks, over‑the‑counter options, or guidance on when to see a specialist, the articles are organized to give you clear next steps.