Burning Mouth Syndrome
Also known as: burning mouth syndrome, BMS, oral burning pain, primary burning mouth syndrome
Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic oral pain condition characterised by a burning sensation of the tongue, lips or oral mucosa without an obvious local cause on examination. Secondary causes such as nutritional deficiency, diabetes, oral candidiasis, xerostomia, medication effects and neuropathy should be excluded. TCM and acupuncture are adjunctive only.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Sip water frequently and use sugar-free lozenges or saliva substitutes to relieve dry mouth.
- •Avoid known triggers: acidic foods, spicy foods, alcohol, tobacco, cinnamon and mint-flavoured toothpaste.
- •Switch to a bland, SLS-free toothpaste and maintain gentle oral hygiene.
- •Manage stress with mindfulness, sleep hygiene and gentle movement such as Tai Chi or Qi Gong.
- •Review medications (especially ACE inhibitors and antidepressants) and screen for B12, folate, iron and zinc deficiency with your GP.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Do not claim acupuncture cures Burning Mouth Syndrome.[]
- •Exclude serious oral disease before treatment.
- •Avoid banned herbs including Má Huáng and Fù Zǐ.
- •Observe standard pregnancy acupuncture contraindications.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.