Glossodynia

Glossodynia or burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a condition characterized by a burning or tingling sensation on the lips, tongue, or entire mouth. The condition is less commonly known as orodynia, and sometimes (informally) as burning tongue.

Typically, there are no visual signs like discoloration that help the diagnosis. BMS is defined as the presence of a burning sensation in the mouth and/or tongue (almost always bilateral) without the presence of any discoloration, ulcers, or other visual anomalies in the oral cavity.

Causes
Possible causes include nutritional deficiencies, chronic anxiety or depression, type 2 diabetes, menopause, oral disorders such as thrush or dry mouth, Sjögren's syndrome, or damaged nerves (specifically, cranial nerves associated with taste).

One cause of burning mouth pain, which may be often misdiagnosed as burning mouth syndrome, is a contact sensitivity Type IV hypersensitivity in the oral tissues to common substances such as sodium lauryl sulfate, a surfactant commonly used in household products, cinnamon aldehyde or dental materials. There are now several toothpastes on the market specifically without sodium lauryl sulfate or other preservatives which have been found to be associated with sensitivities.

Presentation
This condition appears more often in women, especially after menopause, than men. Pain typically is low or nonexistent in the morning and builds up over the course of the day.

Treatment
Low dosages of benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsants may prove to be an effective treatment.

Alpha-lipoic acid 600 to 800 mg administered daily in three or four doses has been found to reduce symptoms. Trials have been small, but alpha-lipoic acid may be an appropriate adjunctive treatment option.