Pain perception and quality of life in burning mouth syndrome

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Burning mouth syndrome is a dysfunctional state affecting physical, mental and social welfare, often contributing to chronic stress conditions. Despite the lack of objective data, patients experience pain-related discomfort with impact in their daily life. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of burning mouth syndrome on pain perception and quality of life. METHODS: A cross-sectional, observational, case-controlled study was performed on 76 individuals (38 in each group). The groups were sex- and age-matched. The Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire was used to assess any changes in the quality of life. The visual analog scale was used to assess pain impact and intensity, as well as the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). The effect of sex and other risk factors associated with burning mouth syndrome were also associated. RESULTS: The age of participants was 41 to 85 years. The patients had a negative impact on quality of life with respect to all dimensions of OHIP-14 and PCS domains. Burning mouth syndrome patients complained about moderate (58%) or intense (42%) pain, while the control group participants experienced only mild pain by visual analog scale. The prevalence was predominant in females (a ratio of 3:1), and the most site involved was the tongue. Menopause, hormonal changes, and gastritis were identified as major risk factors. CONCLUSION: Burning mouth syndrome patients had significantly higher PCS and OHIP-14 scores for all domains, indicating an interaction between a higher burden of pain perception and worse quality of life which should therefore be adequately assessed, characterized and managed.