The Impact of Eating Disorders on Oral Health

According to the NEDA (National Eating Disorder Association), approximately 30 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder. While these conditions can be life-threatening and affect one’s well-being significantly, they can also drastically harm one’s dental health. Fortunately, eating disorders can be discovered during routine dental checkups, which is why it’s vital to maintain your biannual visits. Read on to learn how eating disorders can negatively affect your smile and what your dentist can do to help.

What Are Eating Disorders?

An eating disorder is a behavioral condition in which there is a severe and persistent disturbance in eating habits. It’s a very serious issue that affects physical, psychological, and social function. Eating disorders most commonly occur among young women between the ages of 12 and 25. Here is a closer look at a few types:

• Anorexia— People who suffer from anorexia severely limit their food intake because they have a distorted body image and an extreme fear of gaining weight.
• Bulimia—This involves cycles of binging and purging. It is characterized by eating compulsively and getting rid of the food by intentionally vomiting, exercising, or taking laxatives.
• Binge-Eating Disorder (BED)—This is when a person goes through periods of compulsive eating followed by guilt or depression. However, they do not purge.

How Eating Disorders Impact Your Smile

While eating disorders cause harm to your body, anorexia and bulimia can also wreak havoc on your oral health. The stomach acid from vomiting damages your mouth in many ways. It can lead to worn, translucent, and sensitive teeth. It also increases your risk of frequent cavities and root canals. Some other symptoms include cracked lips, dry mouth, inflamed salivary glands, and difficulty swallowing.

Eating disorders also tend to cause nutritional deficiencies. A lack of essential vitamins, minerals, and fluids can cause multiple dental health problems, like jawbone loss, canker sores, dry mouth, and bad breath. In addition, when you are not getting enough adequate nutrition, it can cause your gums and other soft oral tissues to easily bleed.

How Can Your Dentist Help?

While your dentist is not a mental health professional, they are still available to guide you to your best health. They can provide you with all the guidance and resources you need. In addition, they can help you get on the right path toward recovery and protect your teeth. Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants, especially if you are suffering from tooth erosion or frequent cavities. Patients who struggle with purging may be offered a mouthguard to reduce the effects of stomach acid on the teeth.

Don’t be afraid to talk to a health professional—including your dentist—if you are struggling with an eating disorder. They will be sure to do everything possible to get your smile and body back on the right track!

About the Author

Dr. Proshat Shahrestany and her team at Studio City Dental Arts want you to feel respected and listened to as they help keep your oral health in top condition. She attended UCLA School of Dentistry and now has over two decades of experience. By offering a full range of dental services, from preventive to emergency care, her goal is to keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come. To schedule an appointment, contact her through her website or call (818) 760-0200.