A burning mouth sensation can be unsettling, prompting questions about its connection to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While not always obvious, a link between GERD and burning mouth can exist. Understanding this involves exploring the sensation itself and how reflux influences oral health.
Understanding Burning Mouth Sensation
Burning mouth sensation, or Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS), is a persistent feeling of burning, scalding, or tingling in the mouth. It often affects the tongue, lips, roof of the mouth, or the entire oral cavity. The sensation typically occurs daily, fluctuating in intensity and often worsening throughout the day. Some individuals also report a metallic or bitter taste, or a feeling of dry mouth, even with normal saliva production.
The Link Between GERD and Burning Mouth
GERD can contribute to burning mouth sensation through several mechanisms. The most direct involves stomach contents, including acid and digestive enzymes like pepsin, refluxing into the esophagus and potentially reaching the oral cavity. When these acidic substances contact sensitive oral mucous membranes, they can cause direct irritation and inflammation, leading to a burning sensation. This direct exposure can damage oral tissues over time.
Even non-acidic reflux, involving bile and other digestive enzymes, can also irritate oral tissues. Chronic irritation from any reflux type may sensitize oral nerves, leading to a neuropathic pain response that manifests as persistent burning. This suggests pain can result from altered nerve signaling, not just visible damage. The GERD-burning mouth connection is often considered when other causes are ruled out, or when typical GERD symptoms like heartburn or regurgitation are present.
Other Potential Causes of Burning Mouth
Burning mouth sensation can stem from various factors beyond GERD. Nutritional imbalances, such as deficiencies in B vitamins (like B12), iron, or zinc, can contribute to oral discomfort. Oral infections, notably oral thrush (candidiasis), can also cause burning, often accompanied by white patches or redness.
Dry mouth (xerostomia), resulting from certain medications, medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, or reduced salivary flow, is another common cause. Allergic reactions to dental materials, food additives, or oral hygiene products can trigger symptoms. Specific medications, including some blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and certain diuretics, can cause burning mouth as a side effect. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menopause, and psychological factors like anxiety or depression, are also associated. In some instances, no clear cause is identified, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic burning mouth syndrome.
Managing Burning Mouth When Linked to GERD
When burning mouth sensation is linked to GERD, management focuses on controlling reflux and alleviating oral symptoms. Addressing GERD often involves lifestyle adjustments, such as modifying diet to avoid trigger foods like spicy items, acidic fruits, or caffeine. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding lying down immediately after eating can reduce reflux. Elevating the head of the bed during sleep can prevent stomach acid reflux.
Medical treatments for GERD include over-the-counter antacids for immediate relief, or acid-reducing medications like H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid. For oral symptom relief, sipping water frequently, chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva, and avoiding oral irritants like alcohol-based mouthwashes, tobacco, or very hot or spicy foods can help. Consulting with a healthcare professional is important for accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.