The effects of parafunctional habit control and topical lubricant on discomforts associated with burning mouth syndrome (BMS).

The BMS is a common chronic pain condition which mainly affects old women. The high prevalence of oral parafunctional habits and dry mouth symptoms in patients with BMS suggests that inflammation at the subclinical level due to repetitive microtrauma may cause burning mouth sensations. In this study, using a comprehensive questionnaire, we have investigated the efficacy of oral habit control and use of topical lubricant or corticosteroid on oral complaints associated with BMS. Twenty-five patients with BMS (1 man and 24 women, mean age 59.4+/-8.3 years) were included to investigate the effects of habit control and topical lubricant on discomforts associated with BMS. Another 29 patients (2 men and 27 women, mean age 55.0+/-10.6 years) were included to investigate the effects of habit control and topical dexamethasone (DXM). The burning and aching qualities of discomfort, and the effect of oral complaints on daily life were significantly decreased by both types of treatments. However, there were no significant differences between the different treatment groups. The salivary flow rate did not affect the treatment outcome. We concluded that the concomitant prescription of topical lubricants with oral habit control is an effective initial approach for patients with BMS. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.