A retrospective, cohort study of the prevalence and risk factors of oral burning in patients with dry mouth

Objectives The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of oral burning in a dry mouth cohort of patients and to determine associated factors. Study design A retrospective cohort study was conducted by reviewing the charts of 170 patients who presented to Carolinas Medical Center's Department of Oral Medicine from January 2004 to June 2009. Information collected from their charts was extensive. Results Forty percent (68 of 170) of dry mouth patients had a concomitant complaint of oral burning. Sixty-four were female and 4 were male. The mean age was 61.1 years (range 25-89). Cofactors associated with oral burning included age (OR 1.03, CI 1.00-1.05, P = .028) and use of herbal medications (OR .26, CI .10-.67, P = .005). Conclusions Oral burning is often concomitant with oral dryness. Targeting factors associated with oral dryness may help alleviate an oral burning complaint in select populations.