Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment in Jacksonville, FL

Persistent burning, tingling, or pain in your mouth can make daily life miserable, and many patients don’t know where to turn. At CJ Henley, DMD, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care for patients suffering from burning mouth syndrome (BMS) in Jacksonville and surrounding communities.

Dr. Henley’s advanced experience in oral medicine and oncology makes our practice uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat complex oral pain conditions that are often overlooked.

What Is Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic condition that causes a persistent burning, scalding, or tingling sensation in the mouth, often affecting the tongue, lips, palate, or throat. Patients may also notice changes in taste or dry mouth, even when saliva production is normal.

Common symptoms include:

  • Burning or scalding pain on the tongue, lips, or throughout the mouth

  • Metallic or bitter taste

  • Dry mouth sensation

  • Numbness or tingling of the lips and tongue

  • Pain that worsens throughout the day

For some patients, symptoms appear suddenly and persist for months or years.

What Causes Burning Mouth Syndrome?

There isn’t one single cause. Burning mouth syndrome often results from a combination of local, systemic, and neurologic factors. Dr. Henley performs a detailed evaluation to identify the underlying reason for each patient’s symptoms.

Possible contributing factors include:

  • Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12, iron, zinc)

  • Dry mouth (xerostomia)

  • Hormonal changes (common in postmenopausal women)

  • Allergic reactions to dental materials or foods

  • Oral fungal infections

  • Neuropathic (nerve-related) pain

  • Side effects of medications or cancer treatments

  • Psychological stress or anxiety

In some patients, chronic irritation or clenching and grinding of the teeth may also worsen oral discomfort or amplify nerve sensitivity.

Learn more from the American Academy of Oral Medicine and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Diagnosis at CJ Henley, DMD

Accurate diagnosis is critical. Many patients with burning mouth syndrome have seen multiple providers before finding answers. At our Jacksonville office, Dr. Henley uses a multifactorial diagnostic approach, which may include:

  • Complete review of medical and dental history

  • Oral examination and salivary testing

  • Laboratory testing for nutritional deficiencies

  • Screening for oral candidiasis (fungal infection)

  • Neurological and medication review

Because Dr. Henley also treats head and neck cancer patients at MD Anderson, he is experienced in distinguishing burning mouth syndrome from post-radiation oral pain, peripheral neuropathy, oral mucositis, and inflammatory mucosal conditions such as oral lichen planus.

Treatment Options for Burning Mouth Syndrome

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. In every case, the goal is to reduce pain, restore comfort, and improve quality of life.

  • Common treatment approaches may include:

  • Saliva substitutes or prescription therapies for dry mouth

  • Topical anesthetics or capsaicin rinses for pain relief

  • Vitamin and mineral supplementation when deficiencies are present

  • Antifungal or anti-inflammatory therapies when indicated

  • Neuropathic pain medications (such as low-dose clonazepam, gabapentin, or alpha-lipoic acid under medical supervision)

  • Behavioral or stress-management strategies

  • Customized oral appliances to reduce irritation and protect oral tissues

  • Dr. Henley also collaborates closely with neurologists, ENTs, and oncologists when symptoms suggest a systemic or neuropathic component.

Self-Care Tips for Managing Burning Mouth

In addition to professional treatment, these strategies may help reduce symptoms:

  • Avoid acidic, spicy, or very hot foods

  • Limit alcohol and caffeine

  • Use mild toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)

  • Stay hydrated and use sugar-free lozenges to stimulate saliva

  • Manage stress and prioritize sleep

Learn more about oral dryness and sensitivity from the Mayo Clinic.

When to See a Specialist

If you have persistent burning, tingling, or unexplained oral pain, a thorough evaluation is important. Symptoms that overlap with dry mouth, bruxism, or inflammatory oral conditions often require a deeper diagnostic approach.

At CJ Henley, DMD, we provide comprehensive evaluation and personalized care for burning mouth syndrome and other complex oral conditions affecting comfort and quality of life.