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Easing the discomfort of mouth pain

	This painful and annoying condition has no definite cure but ConsumerReportsHealth.org can help you find ways to cope with this disorder.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today and find out if cognitive behavior therapy and antidepressant drugs treatments rate best for this condition.

If you or someone you know suffers from burning mouth syndrome, you're not alone. Consumer Reports Health is here to help with the best research for this syndrome, and expert evidence and advice about how to treat it.

Key points for people with burning mouth syndrome

• No-one knows for sure what causes it. It may be because the nerves in your mouth are extra-sensitive.
• People often describe it as feeling like they've scalded their mouth on a hot drink. There may be other reasons for why your mouth feels this way. Be sure to check with your doctor.
• If you've been diagnosed as having burning mouth syndrome, it means that your mouth is normal apart from the burning sensation.
• You may feel better once you know that your mouth pain is not a sign of a serious disease. If you can stop worrying about the pain, sometimes you will stop noticing it so much.
• If you are anxious or depressed, or have been experiencing a lot of stress, this may increase your chances of getting this condition.
• It's important to remember that although burning mouth syndrome is uncomfortable, it's not dangerous and won't damage your mouth or teeth.

Burning mouth syndrome is common among older women. As many as 1 in 3 women have symptoms of burning mouth syndrome after the menopause. It's much less common in men and in younger women. One study showed 2 percent of men and 5 percent of women had these symptoms

There are several treatments that can help you cope with the discomfort of burning mouth syndrome. The treatment you have will depend on your symptoms. Certain therapies, food supplements and prescription medications may also be helpful. We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your doctor or dentist to learn more about burning mouth syndrome. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you will have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you will be more confident and knowledgeable about which treatments are best for you.