Highlights:
- Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) causes chronic oral pain and discomfort
- Some simple remedies can provide fast, temporary relief
- Lifestyle changes and stress management can reduce flare-ups
- Professional care is key for long-term treatment
What Is Burning Mouth Syndrome?
Ever feel like your mouth is burning for no reason? Like you sipped hot tea… but you didn’t? That could be Burning Mouth Syndrome or BMS.
BMS is a chronic condition where you experience a burning, scalding, or tingling sensation in your mouth—most commonly on the tongue, but it can also affect the lips, gums, or roof of the mouth. And the tricky part? There’s often no visible cause. Everything looks normal, but it definitely doesn’t feel that way.
It’s more common in postmenopausal women, though people of any gender or age can develop it. Symptoms often include dry mouth, a bitter or metallic taste, or even a scalloped tongue—when the sides of your tongue look wavy or ridged from pressing against your teeth.
One of the reasons BMS is so frustrating is that it’s usually a diagnosis of exclusion. That means your provider will rule out everything else first—like vitamin deficiencies, infections, allergies—before confirming BMS.
Interestingly, recent studies have explored more holistic ways to treat it. In this case study, a patient found relief through a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and an herbal remedy called Goreisan, suggesting the pain may be “nociplastic”—related to nervous system sensitivity rather than inflammation or injury.
8 Remedies for Instant Relief from Burning Mouth Syndrome
1. Sip Cold Water Throughout the Day
It might sound simple but don’t underestimate the power of cold water.
Sipping cool or ice-cold water can give immediate, soothing relief when your mouth feels like it’s on fire. It works by calming irritated nerve endings and creating a cooling effect that eases the burn, even if just for a little while.
Plus, staying hydrated is key—dry mouth often goes hand in hand with BMS. When your mouth lacks moisture, it’s more vulnerable to irritation and inflammation.
View this post on Instagram
2. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
When your mouth feels dry and irritated, chewing gum can go a long way.
Sugar-free gum stimulates saliva, which acts like your mouth’s natural coolant. That extra moisture can help ease the burning sensation and protect sensitive tissues. It’s one of the easiest ways to get quick, on-the-go relief—especially during those unexpected flare-ups.
Look for gum that contains xylitol. Not only does it help with dry mouth, but it also supports your oral health by reducing cavity-causing bacteria. Just make sure it’s truly sugar-free—sweeteners like sorbitol and xylitol are your best friends here.
3. Suck on Ice Chips
Need a quick way to calm that fiery sensation from a burning mouth? Ice chips to the rescue.
Letting ice slowly melt in your mouth can provide a numbing effect that temporarily relieves the burning feeling. It’s especially helpful during flare-ups when other remedies just aren’t cutting it.
Bonus? It keeps your mouth hydrated at the same time—a win-win.
Just be gentle with it. Don’t crunch the ice (your teeth won’t thank you), and if you have sensitivity or dental work, opt for cold water sips instead. It’s all about soothing, not shocking, your mouth.
4. Avoid Foods That Trigger the Burn
Some foods might be making your symptoms worse—without you even realizing it.
Spicy dishes, citrus fruits, salty snacks, and even tomatoes can irritate already sensitive tissues, turning a mild burn into a full-blown flare-up. And don’t forget about alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks—they’re common triggers too.
Wondering why mouthwash burns, especially those strong, minty kinds? It’s often the alcohol content and harsh ingredients that cause irritation—something to be extra cautious about when managing BMS.
A little awareness goes a long way. Try cutting back on known irritants and notice how your mouth responds. It could be the fastest way to cool things down.
5. Try Stress-Relief Techniques
Feeling overwhelmed? Your mouth might be, too.
Stress is a known trigger for Burning Mouth Syndrome, and it can make symptoms feel even more intense. That burning, tingling, or dry sensation? It’s not just physical—it’s often emotional, too.
The good news? Relaxation really helps. Deep breathing, yoga, journaling, or even a short walk can lower your stress levels and ease oral discomfort.
Stress can also show up in other sneaky ways—like teeth grinding. If you’re waking up with jaw tension or headaches, check out how to stop grinding your teeth. It’s all connected, and finding calm in one area often brings relief to another.
6. Switch to a Gentle Toothpaste
Sometimes, even brushing your teeth can feel like a battle when you’re dealing with BMS.
Many mainstream toothpaste contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)—a foaming agent that can irritate sensitive mouths. Minty formulas and whitening pastes can also be too harsh if your mouth is already feeling raw.
Try switching to a gentle, SLS-free toothpaste designed for sensitive mouths. Look for labels that say “non-foaming” or “for dry mouth.”
And while you’re at it, don’t skip your tongue—just go easy. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s what you should know about brushing your tongue safely.
7. Consider Low-Level Laser Therapy
Looking for something beyond at-home remedies? Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) might be worth discussing with your provider.
Recent research shows that LLLT can offer fast, targeted relief for Burning Mouth Syndrome by calming overactive nerves and improving blood flow. It’s non-invasive and typically done in a dental or medical setting.
One study reported significant improvement in BMS symptoms using this approach, especially when paired with complementary care like CBT and herbal support. This highlights how combining strategies may help manage the complex nature of BMS more effectively.
It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many, it’s a step toward long-term relief.
8. Know When to Call a Professional
If the burning just won’t quit, it’s time to loop in a healthcare provider.
Burning Mouth Syndrome can be tough to pin down, but you shouldn’t have to live with constant discomfort. If your symptoms have lasted more than two weeks, or you’re noticing changes like a thick coating on your tongue or white patches, a deeper look is essential.
Some conditions mimic BMS—like oral thrush, which also causes burning and soreness but requires a different treatment approach. When symptoms are stubborn, especially if oral thrush won’t go away, professional testing can help get to the root.
A proper diagnosis opens the door to treatments that truly work for you—so you can finally feel some relief.
FAQs
Does salt water help Burning Mouth Syndrome?
Saltwater is often used for oral healing, but when it comes to BMS, it can actually make the burning worse. The salt may further irritate sensitive tissues, so it’s best to ask your provider before using it.
Does paracetamol help Burning Mouth Syndrome?
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) may take the edge off mild symptoms, but it doesn’t address the underlying issue. It’s more of a short-term pain reliever than a long-term solution.
What helps your mouth stop burning?
Quick relief can come from cold water, sugar-free gum, or stress reduction techniques. Long-term improvement often involves identifying triggers, managing stress, and working with your dentist or doctor to explore options like nutritional support or laser therapy.
What can mimic burning mouth syndrome?
Several conditions can feel like BMS—including oral thrush, dry mouth, and nutritional deficiencies. Tingling, burning, or discomfort might even be connected to low levels of certain vitamins.
What can be confused with burning mouth syndrome?
Along with thrush and deficiencies, things like allergies, geographic tongue, and even hormonal changes can look a lot like BMS. That’s why an accurate diagnosis is so important—your symptoms deserve clarity and care.
Key Takeaways
- Burning Mouth Syndrome causes a persistent burning sensation, often without visible symptoms
- Relief can come from simple strategies like sipping cold water, chewing sugar-free gum, and reducing stress
- Avoiding spicy foods, switching to gentle toothpaste, and exploring options like laser therapy may help
- If symptoms last more than two weeks, see a dentist or doctor for a proper diagnosis
- Conditions like oral thrush, nutrient deficiencies, and dry mouth can mimic BMS, so don’t self-diagnose
Living with a burning mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s distracting, exhausting, and often confusing. But relief is possible, and it starts with listening to your body and taking small, intentional steps.
Still feeling the burn? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to guess your way through it.
Follow @joycethedentist for honest tips, dry mouth-friendly remedies, and support from someone who truly understands oral discomfort.
