Botox, long used to smooth wrinkles, may come to the rescue for people with a painful condition called burning mouth syndrome.
A new study finds that Botox (botulinum toxin) “might be an effective, long-lasting, and safe treatment” for the disorder, says a team of Italian researchers.
According to the U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, burning mouth syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by burning pain in the tongue, and sometimes the lips or roof of the mouth.
This pain “can last for months or years,” the institute says. “Some people feel constant pain every day. For others, pain increases throughout the day. For many people, the pain is reduced when eating or drinking.”
Certain medical conditions, such as allergies, thyroid issues or drug side effects, can cause burning mouth syndrome. But in many cases, the condition is caused “by damage to the nerves that control pain and taste,” the institute said.
Now, a team led by Dr. Domenico Restivo, of Garibaldi Hospital in Catania, says Botox might help ease the condition.
