Patient satisfaction with treatments for burning mouth syndrome: A retrospective study using the self-assessment of treatment questionnaire and visual analogue scale

Abstract

Background: Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic oral condition with complex management and variable treatment outcomes. Evaluating patient satisfaction can guide treatment choices and improve adherence. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 151 patients diagnosed with BMS and treated at a university dental clinic. Clinical records were reviewed, and patient satisfaction was assessed using the Self-Assessment of Treatment Questionnaire (SAT-Q) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Five treatment types were analyzed: clonazepam, melatonin, α-lipoic acid, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and phytotherapy. Results: LLLT yielded the highest scores in symptom improvement (VAS = 4.21), perceived effectiveness (5.02), and overall satisfaction (SAT-Q = 73.91, p < 0.001). Clonazepam was associated with high adherence (93.8 %) but also a greater frequency of side effects (31.3 %). Side effects were not reported in the LLLT or α-lipoic acid groups. Univariate logistic regression showed that symptom relief (OR = 2.64, 95 % CI: 2.03–3.44), perceived effectiveness (OR = 2.07, 95 % CI: 1.71–2.50), and good adherence (OR = 3.81, 95 % CI: 1.95–7.42) were all significantly associated with higher treatment satisfaction (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patient satisfaction in BMS treatment is closely linked to clinical response, perceived effectiveness, and adherence. LLLT showed the most favorable profile in terms of both satisfaction and safety. These findings underscore the value of incorporating patient-reported outcomes in clinical decision-making for BMS management