Burning Mouth Syndrome-Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Multidisciplinary Approach

Background: Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic, idiopathic oral pain condition characterized by persistent burning or dysesthetic sensations of the oral mucosa in the absence of visible clinical abnormalities or laboratory findings. It disproportionately affects postmenopausal women and has profound impacts on quality of life. Objective: This review aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the pathogenesis, diagnostic approach, and multidisciplinary management of BMS. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases focusing on studies from 1990?2024. Clinical trials, systematic reviews, and key narrative reviews on BMS were included. Results: The etiology of BMS is multifactorial, with contributions from peripheral neuropathy, central sensitization, hormonal imbalance, psychological disturbances, and salivary alterations. Diagnosis remains one of exclusion, requiring comprehensive clinical evaluation and exclusion of systemic, local, and iatrogenic causes. A multidisciplinary management approach incorporating dental, neurological, psychiatric, nutritional, and alternative therapeutic perspectives yields the best outcomes. Conclusion: BMS remains a complex, heterogeneous disorder with no universally effective treatment. Advances in neurobiology and pain science hold promise for targeted therapies. A patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach remains the cornerstone of effective care.