I think I need to switch to a holistic dentist. After I received three new zirconia crowns in July, my tongue is dry, my throat burns, and my voice is hoarse. I think I am allergic to the crowns, but my dentist says that zirconia crowns don’t cause a reaction. He advised me to see an ENT because of the issue with my throat, but the ENT said that he doesn’t see anything that’s causing the burning sensation. My sinuses are okay. I also went to a gastro doctor who ruled out reflux. I guess that I will get allergy testing next.

My other concern is about my options after removing the zirconia crowns. I feel safer with a new dentist, and as I mentioned, a holistic dentist. Besides, when my dentist installed the crowns, he used so much water that I felt like I was drowning. I threw up some of the water. I read online about a few other people whose dentist used so much water that it was overwhelming. What are my options other than zirconia crowns? Thank you, Isaiah from Maryland

Isaiah,

Your experience with getting zirconia crowns sounds stressful. We disagree with telling a patient that they can’t be allergic to a specific dental material. Each person has unique circumstances, and immune systems can be unpredictable, even if you have no known allergies.

You visited multiple specialists to identify the cause of your burning throat and dry tongue but still don’t have a diagnosis. We are considering another possibility—burning mouth syndrome.

What Is Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning mouth syndrome is a condition characterized by a burning sensation in your mouth or on your lips or tongue. It can also cause your tongue or mouth to feel dry. Symptoms can linger for days or months. Women are five times more likely than men to experience the symptoms.

What Causes Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Damage to pain and taste nerves is the suspected cause of burning mouth syndrome. Other possible causes include:

• Allergic reaction
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Certain medications
• Medical conditions, including reflux, endocrine disorders, and fungal infections
• Anxiety, depression, or stress

Allergy Testing

A dentist who offers holistic—or biological—treatment can help you find resources for Clifford Materials Reactivity Testing. The testing will reveal if you have an allergy or sensitivity to any dental materials, including zirconia.

But if your allergy tests are negative, consider the possibility that your stressful dental experience triggered burning mouth syndrome.

Your new dentist can explain your treatment options for metal-free crowns and how sedation can help you relax during your appointment and help you get the treatment you need. If you don’t have allergies or sensitivities, your anxiety and discomfort may improve as you develop trust and confidence in a new dentist.

 

Steven Brooksher, DDS, of Baton Rouge, sponsors this post.