How To Care For Your Teeth If You Have Bulimia

Bulimia can have many negative effects on your mind and body, but it is particularly damaging to your teeth. Repeated vomiting episodes cause their protective enamel to erode, leading to severe dental damage. 

This post is a primer on the relationship between bulimia and oral health. We explore what bulimia is and how it affects your teeth, and how you can take better care of your oral health if you have the condition. 

What Is Bulimia, And How Does It Affect Your Teeth?

Bulimia is a mental health issue that causes people to vomit after eating. Many people with the condition binge on food and then “purge” afterward because of guilt or shame. 

Unlike anorexia, where individuals refrain from eating normal quantities of food, people with bulimia often eat a lot and bring it up later. Unfortunately for the teeth, stomach juices are highly acidic and can erode enamel during vomiting episodes. Repeated exposure can eventually dissolve them into stumps, requiring new crowns or implants. 

Repeated retching and vomiting can also cause strain, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gums. Many people with bulimia develop mouth sores and sensitive teeth that cause pain when eating hot or cold food. 

Getting Help For Bulimia – The Best Way To Care For Your Teeth

Of course, the best way to prevent damage to your teeth is to seek professional help for bulimia. Today, dozens of powerful treatments exist that can put you on the path to recovery. Like anorexia, bulimia is a life-altering eating disorder that can have a profound effect on your well-being. Addressing it early helps to prevent it from developing to a critical stage. 

How To Care For Your Teeth If You Have Bulimia

You can care for your teeth in several ways if you have bulimia to reduce the damage from the condition. 

• Rinse your mouth out

Rinsing your mouth with water or fluoride mouthwash after vomiting can be highly effective. It quickly reduces the acid load in the mouth, reducing the risk of dental erosion. 

Also, check the bristles on your toothbrush. If it is too stiff, it may cause further damage to already-weakened teeth. 

• Avoid acidic foods

You can also reduce the amount of acidic food you include in the rest of your diet. Again, this reduces acid load. Avoid:-

• Lemon juice and citrus fruits
• Sodas
• Hibiscus tea
• Coffee

These are highly acidic foods that can weaken tooth enamel further. 

• Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water can also help avoid complications arising from bulimia-associated gum disease. Keeping the mouth moist improves its microbiome, reducing the risk of harmful bacteria damaging tissues around your teeth. 

• Chew sugar-free gum

Some people also find chewing sugar-free gum beneficial. Extra saliva production helps to reduce the risk of tooth decay and enables the mouth to flush out more bacteria between meals. 

• Visit your dentist regularly