Burning Mouth Syndrome Specialists
Burning Mouth Syndrome is a disease of exclusion. This means that all other causes are ruled out as much as possible before a patient receives the BMS diagnosis. Dentists or Family Doctors are usually the first stop in this journey, and we have found that keeping detailed records of who you have seen, their findings and the treatments they recommended is an excellent strategy. You may find yourself in the position of educating a medical professional about a disorder they haven't encountered before, and you want to have your facts in hand.
When you go to a new specialist, bring a copy of your records for them to keep. Make a list of questions that you have. Be clear about medications, how to take them and very importantly, how to stop taking them if they aren't helping. Agree to a time period up front, and get your instructions in writing.
The Usual Specialists
Dentist, Periodontist, Endodontist, Oral Surgeon, Family Doctor
The first specialists you are likely to see are your dentist or family doctor.
You should see your dentist, because burning in the tongue and oral cavity can be caused by disorders or even an uncorrected bite problem. Your dentist may refer you to another specialist.
Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT), Gastroenterologist, Vocal Specialist
Neurologist, Pain Management Doctor
Ear, Nose & Throat doctors will rule out the usual causes of burning in the oral cavity. Yeast, Shingles, and Oral Cancers will be checked and ruled out. If GERD (acid reflux) is suspected, your next stop may be a Gastroenterologist.
Many Burning Mouth Syndrome sufferers receive their diagnosis when everything else is ruled out.
Then, it is time to consult with a neurologist and perhaps even a pain management specialist. It is a great idea to look for neurologists who have worked with BMS when you are choosing one.
Other Options - Alternative Medicine and Coping Strategies
Nutritionist, Naturopathic Doctor Functional Medicine Practitioner, Homeopath
Some sufferers have found relief by changing their diet, and a Nutritionist is a great resource for this kind of coping strategy. Natural, Homeopathic and Functional Medicine Practitioners can often help without traditional medications.
Chiropractor, Reflexologist, Massage Therapist
Stress is the enemy for a BMS sufferer, and so whatever therapies help you to relax are good investments in your health and coping strategies.
Acupuncture, Asian Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine
Asian medicine holds many alternatives to try, from the BMS acupuncture protocol, to many herbs that have been used for thousands of years in China and India.