Tips on How to Save Money on Your Oral Health

When it comes to saving money, few people think about their oral health care routine. However, there are several ways that you can save money on your oral health care without skimping on the quality of products that you receive. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Buy Products at Larger Supermarkets for Lower Prices

You can find good quality oral health products at your local supermarket for a fraction of the price you would pay at smaller stores. Look for brands that you trust and be sure to read the labels to make sure you are getting what you need.

Buy products from your dentist.

Sometimes it is worth it to buy directly from your dentist because they will be able to tell you exactly what you need so you don’t waste money on things you don’t. Dentists often have special deals or package pricing that can save you money in the long run.

Look at Your Local Pharmacy

Pharmacies stock oral health products and often have discounts and multibuys available. Many people don’t realize that pharmacies carry a wide variety of oral health products, and they are often very reasonably priced. Be sure to check the sale flyer before you shop so you know what deals are available.

Don’t Forget About Discount Stores

Discount shops such as dollar stores or discount department stores often have good deals on oral health products as well. Be sure to check the expiration date before you buy to make sure you are getting a good deal.

Practice Prevention

Preventive dentistry saves you time, money, and aggravation in the long run. Tips to avoid expensive dental treatments include brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

Consider Your Diet to Safeguard Your Teeth

Eating sugary and acidic foods can damage your teeth over time and lead to cavities and other problems. Limiting these foods in your diet can help keep your teeth healthy and prevent costly dental treatment down the road.

Use Dental Insurance If You Have It

If you have dental insurance, be sure to use it! Most insurance plans will cover at least a portion of the cost of preventive care, such as teeth cleanings and X-rays. Regular preventive care can help you avoid more expensive dental problems down the road.

Look Into Dental Payment Plans When Needed

If you need dental work that is not covered by insurance, or if you don’t have insurance, ask your dentist about payment plans. Many dentists offer financing options that can make dental care more affordable.

Learn About the Child Dental Benefits Schedule

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government-funded program that provides free or low-cost dental care for eligible children aged 2-17 years old. If you have kids, see if they qualify for the CDBS.

Why Choose Park 56 Dental in New York?

The team at Park 56 Dental is proud to offer our patients high quality, affordable dental care in New York in a comfortable and convenient setting. Our experienced staff is devoted to providing each patient with individualized attention and care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We look forward to meeting you soon!

Why it’s important to seek an Invisalign provider

When Invisalign aligners came on the scene, they were a revolutionary idea. Suddenly, people could get beautiful, straight teeth without the hassle of traditional wire braces. Instead, using a series of nearly invisible, removable, comfortable, clear aligners, dentists could straighten teeth in less time than people spend in wire braces. Now, various companies have seized upon this idea and are flooding the market with at home straightening kits. Do they work, or is Invisalign still the right choice?

At-home straightening companies send the customer a kit to make a 3-D mold of their own teeth. This mold is submitted to the company, and a series of clear aligners are sent to the customer periodically. The patient never needs to visit the dentist or orthodontist, which allows these companies to charge far less than a patient would pay for Invisalign. In fact, one leading at-home straightening company estimates that their product is about 60 percent cheaper than traditional teeth straightening.

The problem with these at-home straightening kits is the same thing that makes them inexpensive: they allow patients to skip the orthodontist or dentist. Without professional supervision, patients can actually damage their teeth irreparably. This is because straightening teeth often requires adjustments to the plan, and if you are straightening your teeth on your own, there’s no monitoring of your progress and no professional who could make these adjustments.

Additionally, while a dentist is qualified to create a customized straightening plan for you, at-home straighteners are more of a “one-size-fits-all” product. They don’t work for everyone, and there is no way for these companies to consider all the different factors that could affect your progress. When you bypass the guidance of a dental care professional, you run the risk of missing problems with your jaw or the roots of your teeth. Issues that could have been caught by an x-ray before treatment can end up being complications that can affect the results of your straightening attempts. While an at-home straightening program may cost less upfront, it could end up leading to costly problems in the long run.

If you want to straighten your teeth using clear aligners, the best choice is to seek a qualified Invisalign provider. Your dentist or orthodontist will create a 3D image of your teeth and design a treatment plan that’s customized for you. You’ll wear a series of clear aligners that are removable, so that you can continue to eat your favorite foods while your teeth are being straightened. Each set of aligners will need to be worn for about two weeks, and you’ll see your dentist every six weeks so that your treatment can be monitored and adjusted as needed. The average treatment time for Invisalign is between nine and 15 months.

When you’re ready to find out if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, choose the practice that was voted best dentist in NYC! At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

Different Bites That Could Be Affecting Your Oral Health

How is your bite? Did you know that only about 30 to 40 percent of the population have what’s considered a perfect bite? The rest of us suffer from some kind of malocclusion, in which don’t meet the way they should and sometimes don’t meet at all. Everyone’s bite is uniquely their own, but there are some general types of bites that could be affecting your oral health.

• If you have a crossbite, your upper teeth fit inside your lower teeth. Sometimes only a single tooth is affected, but crossbite can also affect a group of teeth, or all of your teeth. Sometimes, different parts of your upper teeth hit different parts of your lower teeth, coming down in front and behind them. This can cause the jaw to shift to one side and can wear down your enamel.
• With an underbite, the lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw. This can give a person a bulldog appearance, and it can put unnecessary stress on the joints in the jaw.
• When a person has an overbite, the top teeth protrude in front of the lower teeth. While the upper teeth are supposed to be a little bit in front of the lower teeth, when they are too far in front it can create a bucktoothed look. In the case of a deep bite, the upper teeth can completely cover the bottom teeth. In extreme cases, the teeth can dig into the gums, raising the risk of gum disease.
• An open bite, just as it sounds, means the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the jaw is closed. This can happen because of tongue thrusting or mouth breathing, and it can cause swallowing problems or speech problems if it’s not corrected.
• If your teeth are crowded, this means they’re too close together. The problem may be that you have a small mouth, or perhaps large teeth, but whatever the case, it results in teeth that are twisted, overlapping, or trapped. Crowded teeth are difficult to clean, raising your risk of cavities and gum disease.
• When teeth have too much room, dentists talk about spacing. If you have undersized teeth, oversized jaws, missing teeth, or a combination of these factors, you might have spacing issues.
• Misalignment is a vague term that means your teeth are crooked. If your dentist says you have a misalignment, you may not have as severe a problem as people with some of these other types of bites, but your teeth simply don’t quite fit together. Fortunately, your dentist or orthodontist can help you get them back in line.

When you’re ready to fix your bite, choose the practice that was voted best dentist in NYC! At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

Foods That are Secretly Ruining Your Teeth

There are certain foods that everyone knows are bad for your teeth, like sticky candy and sugary sodas. Other foods, though, are a little sneakier. In fact, you may be eating a healthy diet and still be damaging your teeth. Don’t worry, if your favorite foods are on this list, you don’t have to give them up forever. Just make sure that you’re aware of the damage they can do, eat them in moderation, and keep up with your oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

• It might surprise you to learn that fresh fruit can damage your teeth. It’s a healthy choice for a snack, but some fruit is also high in enamel-eroding acid and cavity-causing sugar. Apples, citrus fruits, and strawberries all fall into this category, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t eat them. Just make sure to rinse your mouth with water to help clean the sugars and acid from your teeth.
• Dried fruit is worse than fresh fruit when it comes to oral health. They’re a great source of fiber, but they contain a lot of sugar and they’re sticky enough to cling to your teeth. All that sugar stuck to your teeth creates the perfect environment to welcome bacteria and cause cavities.
• Popcorn is a nearly irresistible snack, but it’s not great for your teeth. First, it’s high in carbs, which turn into sugars and feed bacteria. Then, the kernels and other particles can get stuck in your teeth or lodged in your gums. Popcorn bits between the teeth help bacteria grow, and when you pull kernels from under your gums, they leave gaps where bacteria can invade. If you can’t resist snacking on popcorn, make sure to brush and floss afterwards.
• What you drink can be just as damaging as the things you eat. Diet soda may seem like a good alternative to regular soda, but the acid in the soda can damage your enamel, and the artificial sweeteners promote the growth of bacteria. Fizzy waters with natural flavors are a better option because they don’t have sugar or sweeteners. Wine, coffee, and tea can all stain your teeth, and sports drinks tend to be loaded with sugar. Limit these beverages, and when you do drink them, make sure to follow up with a glass of water to rinse your teeth.
• Watch how you eat nuts. When choosing a nut butter, pick one without added sugars. If you’re eating almonds, choose slivered almonds to reduce the risk of cracking your teeth.
• Pickles can wear down your tooth enamel. Sweet pickles are especially bad for your teeth because of the added sugar, but even dill pickles have acid that’s very damaging. To cut the acidity, enjoy pickles in moderation and rinse your mouth with water after eating them. Eating cheese with your pickles can also help neutralize the acid.
• Beware of bread. Bread may seem harmless enough, but when your saliva breaks down the starch in bread, it converts it to sugar. White bread is the worst, because it sticks to your teeth, so choose whole grain bread for your sandwiches.
• Water is great for your teeth, unless it’s frozen. When you chew on ice, you can chip away your tooth enamel and even break your teeth. Instead of chewing on ice, reach for celery sticks or baby carrots for that satisfying crunch.

No matter what you eat, regular dental appointments are the key to keeping your teeth healthy. When it’s time for a check-up, choose the practice that was voted best dentist in NYC! At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

How to Care for Your Teeth During the Holidays

The holidays are upon us! What a whirlwind of a season, as we dash from one event to the next. Many of these events are full of rich foods and sweet treats, and there’s often no time to think about much beyond the next thing on the calendar. Whatever you do during the holidays, take care not to neglect your dental care. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth fresh, clean, and healthy, all the way into the new year!

• Make sure you’ve got healthy food in the mix. While you’re nibbling, munching, and feasting, intersperse healthy snacks with your decadent treats. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are great for your teeth, and so are cheese and whole grains.
• Take care not to overdo the sweets. This time of year, temptations are omnipresent! Popcorn balls, candy canes, and other sticky sweet treats are particularly bad for your teeth, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo them entirely. Just stick to one dessert and then brush your teeth, to reduce your risk of tooth decay.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools. Cracking nuts, pulling out wine corks, opening packages, and all the other ways you can use your teeth instead of heading to the toolbox or kitchen drawer for a more suitable tool should be outlawed. The last thing you want to do this holiday season is end up with a broken tooth, so use your teeth only for eating and smiling.
• Drink plenty of water and keep your drinks light. Water is good for every system in your body, and it can help fill your stomach so that you don’t overeat. What’s more, it’s extremely helpful in washing away bacteria before plaque can form on your teeth. If you want to drink something other than water, steer clear of sugary beverages and choose drinks that are light-colored, as well. You’ll be doing your teeth a favor by keeping them clean and white.
• Stick to your routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, even if you’re on the go. Facilitate this by keeping a toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste handy at all times, in your purse, briefcase, or car, so that you can take care of your teeth even if you’re away from home.
• Don’t wait to fix any dental issues. Even if you’re out of town, don’t let a broken tooth or lost filling go without treatment. Call a local dental office for an emergency appointment; most dentists are prepared to accept visiting patients at this time of year.
• Schedule a cleaning for after the holiday season. You want to start the new year with a gorgeous smile and a healthy mouth, right? Go ahead and make your post-holiday checkup now, so that as soon as this hectic season draws to a close, you can get back into the swing of taking care of yourself.

When you’re ready to schedule your post-holiday dental check-up, choose the practice that was voted best dentist in NYC! At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

Why Your Gums Itch

You know that feeling when your gums start to itch? The sensation can be annoying, and it might even make you a little self-conscious. But did you know that gum itchiness is actually a sign of something else going on in your mouth? There are a few different things that can cause your gums to itch. Read on to learn more about common causes of itchy gums and what you can do about it!

What Causes Gums to Itch and What Are Symptoms?

The most common cause of itchy gums is plaque build-up. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. When plaque isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can irritate your gums and cause them to itch. Other causes of itchy gums include:

• Gum disease – Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue. It can cause swelling, redness, and bleeding of the gums.

• Allergies – Allergies to food, medication, or other substances can cause itching and swelling of the gums.

• Dry mouth – Dry mouth can occur due to certain medications, medical conditions, or treatments. It can cause the gums to become irritated and itch.

Symptoms of itchy gums include:

• itching

• redness

• swelling

• tenderness

• bleeding

Are Itchy Gums a Warning Sign for a More Serious Issue?

Itchy gums are usually not a sign of a more serious condition. However, in rare cases, they may be a sign of gum disease or another oral health problem. If you have any concerns, see your dentist or oral healthcare provider.

What Are My Options for Treatment and Relief?

The best way to treat itchy gums is to remove the plaque and tartar with professional dental cleanings. Your dentist or oral healthcare provider can also recommend other treatments, such as:

• Fluoride mouth rinse – This can help prevent plaque build-up.

• Soft toothbrush – A soft-bristled toothbrush can be less irritating to your gums.

• Medications – If your itchy gums are caused by an allergy, your doctor may prescribe medication.

When Should I See a Doctor for My Itching Gums?

You should see a dentist or oral healthcare provider if your itchy gums are severe or don’t improve with home treatment. You should also see a healthcare provider if you have any other symptoms, such as:

• fever

• swelling of the face or lips

• difficulty breathing

How Can I Prevent Itchy Gums?

You can help prevent itchy gums by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using a fluoride mouth rinse. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional dental cleanings and check-ups.

How Can Park 56 Dental in NYC Help Me Treat My Itchy Gums?

If you have itchy gums, the team at Park 56 Dental in New York can help. We offer professional dental cleanings and a variety of other treatments to help relieve your symptoms. We also offer preventative care services to help you avoid itchy gums in the future. To learn more, contact us today or schedule an appointment online.

How to Avoid Dental Abscesses

Dental abscesses are one of the most painful conditions that can affect your teeth and gums. If you think you may have a dental abscess, it’s important to see a dentist right away so that the infection can be treated and the pain relieved. Read on to learn more about dental abscesses and what to do.

What Are Dental Abscesses?

A dental abscess is an infection that can occur around the teeth and gums. This infection is often the result of bacteria that enters the mouth through a tooth or gum injury. The bacteria then multiply and cause an abscess, which is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the site of the infection.

Dental abscesses can be extremely painful and may require treatment by a dentist or other medical professional. If left untreated, dental abscesses can lead to serious health complications such as sepsis (a potentially life-threatening condition caused by infection).

What Are the Symptoms of Dental Abscesses?

The symptoms of dental abscesses can vary depending on where the infection is located. The most common symptom of a dental abscess is severe pain. This pain is often described as throbbing or pulsating and may be worse when lying down or when pressure is applied to the affected tooth. Other symptoms of a dental abscess include:

• Swelling in the face, jaw, or neck

• Redness in the mouth or on the skin around the mouth

• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

• Bad breath

• Fever

How Are Dental Abscesses Diagnosed?

If you think you might have a dental abscess, it is important to see a dentist right away. Your dentist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will then examine your mouth, teeth, and gums. X-rays may be taken to confirm the diagnosis.

How Are Dental Abscesses Caused?

Dental abscesses are usually caused by bacteria that enters the tooth through a crack or cavity. Once the bacteria gets inside, it can start to multiply and cause an infection.

What Are the Risks of Abscesses?

If left untreated, dental abscesses can lead to more serious health problems such as: sepsis (a blood infection), meningitis (an infection of the brain and spinal cord), and even death.

How Can I Prevent Dental Abscesses?

Dental abscesses can be painful and dangerous, so it’s important to take steps to avoid them. Park 56 Dental in New York City offers the following tips:

• Brush and floss regularly. This helps remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, which can lead to an infection.
• See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This allows your dentist to spot any problems early and take steps to prevent an infection.
• If you have a toothache, don’t wait to see a dentist. This could be a sign of an infection.
• If you have an injury to your mouth, see a dentist right away. An injury can lead to an infection if not treated properly.
• Eat a healthy diet. This helps keep your immune system strong, which can help fight off infection.

How Can Park 56 Dental in NYC Help Treat my Dental Abscess?

The treatment for a dental abscess will depend on the severity of the infection. In some cases, the abscess may need to be drained by a dentist or other medical professional. The pus that is drained from the abscess will usually contain bacteria, so it is important that the area is cleaned thoroughly to prevent the infection from spreading. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear the infection. In some cases, they may also need to perform a root canal procedure to remove the infected tooth. If the abscess is large or does not respond to treatment, surgery may be necessary.

If you think you may have a dental abscess, don’t wait to get it treated. Call Park 56 Dental today at (646) 679-3989 to schedule an appointment.

How a Natural Sweetener Can Help with Your Teeth

If you’re looking for a way to reduce your risk of tooth decay, xylitol may be the answer. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can be found in a variety of products and foods. It’s also been shown to have dental benefits, including reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Here’s what you need to know about xylitol and its oral health benefits.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based sources. It’s commonly used as a sugar substitute in food and beverages because it has a sweet taste but doesn’t cause the same blood sugar spikes as regular sugar. Xylitol is also used in a variety of products, such as chewing gum, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

What Products and Foods Contain Xylitol?

Xylitol is found in a variety of foods and beverages, including baked goods, candy, chocolate, fruit juices, jam, syrup, and yogurt. It’s also available as a dietary supplement. You can find xylitol-sweetened products in most grocery stores and health food stores.

How Xylitol Affects Your Teeth

When it comes to oral health, xylitol has several benefits. Xylitol has been shown to reduce the risk of cavities by preventing the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. It also helps to repair damaged tooth enamel. Xylitol also stimulates saliva production, which helps to keep your mouth healthy and free of bacteria.

How Does Xylitol Compare to Sugar?

Compared to sugar, xylitol is a healthier choice for your teeth. Sugar promotes the growth of cavities-causing bacteria, while xylitol inhibits bacterial growth. Xylitol is also lower on the glycemic index than sugar, so it won’t cause the same blood sugar spikes. And because xylitol is a natural sweetener, it’s a good choice for people who are looking for a healthier alternative to sugar.

Is Xylitol Safe?

Xylitol is safe for most people. However, like any other food, it’s important to eat it in moderation. Xylitol is safe for people of all ages, including pregnant women and children. However, if you have diabetes, xylitol may cause your blood sugar levels to rise. If you have any concerns about consuming xylitol, talk to your doctor or dentist.

The Use of Xylitol for Oral Health

Xylitol has been shown to be effective in preventing cavities and gum disease. It’s also a good choice for people who are looking for a natural alternative to sugar. If you’re interested in using xylitol for your oral health, talk to your dentist. They can recommend products that contain xylitol and advise you on how much to use.

Can Xylitol Restore Cavities and Reverse Gum Disease?

Xylitol has been shown to be effective in preventing cavities. However, it’s important to note that xylitol cannot reverse cavities or gum disease. If you have cavities or gum disease, it’s important to see your dentist for treatment.

Schedule an Appointment with Park 56 Dental in New York Today to Learn More About Oral Care and Wellness

If you’re interested in learning more about oral care and wellness, schedule an appointment with Park 56 Dental in New York today. We offer a variety of dental services, including preventive care, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more. We also offer a wide range of dental products, such as toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Tooth-Replacement Options

If you are missing teeth, it is important to replace them for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Missing teeth can cause problems with chewing and speaking and can also lead to other teeth shifting out of place. Replacing your missing teeth will help you to restore your smile and your ability to eat and speak normally.

There are several different options available for tooth replacement, and the best option for you will depend on a number of factors including the number of teeth you are missing, the condition of your remaining teeth, and your budget. Your dentist can help you to determine the best option for you based on your individual needs.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one popular option for tooth replacement. A dental implant is a small metal post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once the implant has healed, an artificial tooth, called a crown, is attached to the implant. Dental implants are very strong and durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. However, they are also the most expensive option for tooth replacement.

Implant-Supported Bridge

Another option for tooth replacement is an implant-supported bridge. An implant-supported bridge is like a traditional dental bridge, except that instead of being supported by natural teeth, it is supported by dental implants. This option is a good choice for people who are missing several teeth in a row. Like dental implants, an implant-supported bridge can last a lifetime with proper care.

Tooth-Supported Bridge

A third option for tooth replacement is a tooth-supported bridge. A tooth-supported bridge is made up of artificial teeth, called pontics, that are supported by natural teeth on either side. This option is less expensive than dental implants, but it is not as durable and may need to be replaced sooner.

Removable Partial Denture

A fourth option for tooth replacement is a removable partial denture. A removable partial denture consists of artificial teeth set in a pink base that matches the color of your gums. The denture is held in place by metal clasps that attach to your natural teeth. Removable partial dentures can be taken out for cleaning and are typically less expensive than other options for tooth replacement.

Flipper

A fifth option for tooth replacement is a flipper. A flipper is a temporary tooth replacement option that consists of an artificial tooth attached to a plastic base. The flipper is held in place by metal wire or plastic posts. Flippers are the least expensive tooth replacement option, but they are also the least durable and may need to be replaced more often than other options.

Visit Park 56 Dental Today for a Consultation

No matter which tooth-replacement option you choose, it’s important to see a dentist regularly to make sure your new teeth are healthy and functioning properly.

Park 56 Dental in New York can help you to choose the best tooth replacement option for you based on your individual needs. We offer a full range of dental implant and tooth replacement services, and our experienced dentists will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your goals. Contact us today at (646) 679-3989 to schedule a consultation.

What is Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a condition that causes burning pain in the mouth. Approximately 3% of people suffer from burning mouth syndrome. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be related to changes in nerve function.

Treatment typically involves managing symptoms with oral hygiene, dietary changes, and medications. In some cases, behavioral therapy may also be recommended. If you are suffering from burning mouth syndrome, you are not alone. Read on to learn more about BMS and how you can manage your symptoms to feel better.

An Overview of Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a condition that causes burning pain in the mouth. It can affect the tongue, gums, lips, inside of the cheeks, and roof of the mouth. The pain may be constant, or it may come and go. BMS is also known as glossodynia, stomatodynia, orodynia, and burning tongue syndrome.

Are There Different Types?

There are two types of burning mouth syndrome: primary and secondary. Primary BMS has no known cause. Secondary BMS is caused by an underlying medical condition or medications.

Is Burning Mouth Syndrome More Common in Certain People?

Burning mouth syndrome is more common in women than men. It is also more common in people over the age of 50.

What Are the Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome?

The main symptom of burning mouth syndrome is burning pain in the mouth. Other symptoms include dry mouth, bitter or metallic taste in the mouth, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

What Are the Causes?

The cause of primary BMS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to nerve damage. Secondary BMS can be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, nutritional deficiencies, or viral infections. It can also be caused by medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, or high blood pressure medications.

Do Medications Cause Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Medications are a common cause of secondary BMS. Antidepressants, antihistamines, and high blood pressure medications are the most common medications that cause BMS.

How Do You Diagnose Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning mouth syndrome is diagnosed based on the symptoms. A physical exam and medical history are also done to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. Blood tests may also be done to check for underlying medical conditions.

What Treatments Are Available for Burning Mouth Syndrome?

There is no cure for burning mouth syndrome, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms. Treatment options include mouthwashes, lozenges, and topical creams. In some cases, antidepressant or anticonvulsant medications may be prescribed.

How Do I Prevent Burning Mouth Syndrome?

There is no known way to prevent burning mouth syndrome. However, if you have an underlying medical condition that is thought to be a cause of BMS, treating the condition may help reduce the symptoms of BMS.

How Long Does It Take for Burning Mouth Syndrome to Resolve?

The duration of burning mouth syndrome varies from person to person. In some cases, BMS may go away on its own. In other cases, it may be a chronic condition that requires treatment.

While there is no cure for BMS, there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. Park 56 Dental can work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. We may recommend changes to your diet, medications to help with pain or dryness, and behavioral therapies to help reduce stress or anxiety. Contact us today for a free consultation!