Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic condition characterized by a persistent burning sensation in the mouth, sometimes accompanied by numbness. Its clinical features closely resemble other neuropathic pain disorders, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. In Norway, research on BMS has been limited, but a new project at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, aims to establish an effective treatment method using capsaicin drops.

Associate Professor Preet Bano Singh explains that BMS is diagnosed when intense burning mouth pain persists for at least 4-6 months without any identifiable medical or dental cause. Patients often feel dismissed, as their symptoms are not visibly apparent. Brain scans of BMS patients have revealed abnormalities in the pain matrix, indicating cerebral neuropathy as a possible cause of the burning sensation.

Currently, there are no optimal treatment regimens for BMS patients in Norway. Various medications like benzodiazepines, gabapentin, tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, antioxidants, and behavioral therapies are used, but none provide satisfactory relief. Approximately 60% of patients respond positively to alpha-lipoic acid, an antioxidant, but the remaining 40% see little to no improvement.

The research focuses on creating a 'carrier' that can retain capsaicin in the mouth despite saliva and tongue movements. Capsaicin activates TRPV1 receptors, which transmit pain and temperature signals. The carrier must be sufficiently adhesive to the mucous membrane to prolong capsaicin's presence and enhance its effectiveness. Before clinical application, the team must ensure that the new carrier is safe for oral cells.