Fire in the mouth?: These are the causes of burning tongue

fire in the mouth?
These are the causes of tongue burning

Spicy food is not the only thing that causes a burning sensation on the tongue.

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Five percent of all Germans suffer from burning tongue. dr Jochen H. Schmidt reveals in an interview what the causes can be.

Improper oral hygiene, food allergies or an illness: Burning tongue can have many different causes, but should be treated if it occurs regularly, especially if there are “conspicuous surface changes”, emphasizes Dr. Jochen H. Schmidt, dental director of Carree Dental in Cologne. In an interview with the news agency spot on news, the expert explains the causes, symptoms and treatment methods.

How is tongue burning expressed?

dr Jochen H. Schmidt: Specialists estimate that five percent of all Germans suffer from burning tongue. Often not only the tongue burns like fire for hours, but also the palate and lips. Taste disturbances are other common symptoms of this phenomenon.

What are the most common causes of tongue burning?

Schmidt: Fortunately, it rarely hides serious illnesses. Dry mouth is the main cause of burning in the mouth. In many cases, allergies, diabetes, hormonal disorders, inflammation of the oral mucosa and gums or tooth decay are behind the symptoms. But mental problems or stress can also play a role.

When should you see a doctor and is a visit to the dentist most sensible?

Schmidt: Burning tongue is often tedious, but with every second person the symptoms go away on their own after a while. Consultation with the dentist as the first medical point of contact brings clarity. However, if there are noticeable surface changes on the tongue or other symptoms, immediate medical help is required.

What helps against burning tongue?

Schmidt: Due to the many possible causes, there is no effective uniform treatment method. Anti-inflammatory solutions such as chamomile concentrates usually have a soothing effect. These should be used several times a day. Also drink a lot, for example lime blossom tea.

Contrary to what is often said, drinking cold milk is practically useless. If you have a burning tongue, you should largely avoid alcohol, nicotine and spicy food.

Can the symptoms be prevented?

Schmidt: Adequate fluid intake and intensive oral hygiene in the mornings and evenings (if possible also at lunchtime) are important. Thoroughly clean not only the incisors and the chewing surfaces of the molars, but also the inside and outside of all teeth. Small shaking movements are recommended – especially on the gum line, where a lot of plaque forms. In addition, clean the spaces between your teeth with dental floss once a day if possible.

dr Jochen H. Schmidt is the dental director of Carree Dental in Cologne. He holds the additional academic title of “Master of Science in Oral Implantology and Surgery”.

SpotOnNews

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