Hi @kcarson123 and welcome to Mayo Connect. Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry for your loss. I can’t even imagine losing your husband at such an early age. What huge adjustments you’re having to face. The stress and emotions can have a profound impact mentally and physically.

Burning mouth syndrome is not a welcome situation. I just went through a couple of episodes of that myself. I do have a pre-existing medical condition that has spawned this but it still stems from an autoimmune response so I’m wondering if the med my doctor prescribed might also benefit you.

It is a steroid RINSE called dexamethasone .05 mg/ml.
For burning mouth it used off label as it’s NOT swallowed. So you won’t have the side effects of oral steroids.
I had to rinse for only 30 seconds and then spit it out. Then no eating or drinking for a half hour. 12 hours apart.
It was a game changer for me! Within a couple of days my mouth was 99% improved. Only one little patch of irritation remained and for that I have a topical gel that has been working like a miracle. But for the general burning mouth, the Dexamethasone rinse works like a champ. If I feel it returning I can use it as needed. It’s worth asking your doctor.

Also, if you haven’t already, stop using any product with mint such as toothpaste or mouth rinses and use non-mint dental floss. I had to switch to children’s toothpaste and found that Bert’s Bees Children’s paste works really well with no burning tongue! I also use a small children’s toothbrush now too.

There seem to be trigger foods for me such as anything salty, crunchy, acidic or super cold!
So no pickles, mustard, hot sauce, chips, salsa…you get the picture. But lately I’ve been able to reintroduce a little ketchup! Yay.

Over the counter mouth rinses such as Orajel or simple lukewarm saltwater rinses can help sooth the mouth.
Have you tried Orajel or salt water rinses?

I’m pretty sure my BMS was caused by extensive dental work and trauma to my nerves in my mouth. I joined a BMS forum and saw pulling was recommended that had helped many so I tried it with coconut oil and it worked for me. It had been months of trying mouth washes, toothpastes etc but thank heavens this worked and I haven’t had it since, also have not been to the dentist either! I’d say it took about 2 to 3 days to notice it was helping me. Good luck, BMS was not fun 😩

I’ve had it for over 16 years. Over time I’ve learned to deal with it. The burning mouth grouos in Facebook have helped me a lot.