The Untold Dangers of Eating Disorders on Oral Health

Eating disorders can have a horribly detrimental effect on a person’s physical and mental well-being – but did you know that they can also seriously damage oral health?

Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge-eating disorder each exert uniquely harmful consequences on the delicate balance of oral infrastructure. As dental health professionals, it’s our duty to raise awareness of these under-appreciated factors and provide appropriate care for those suffering. 

In this short informative article, we’ll give you a whistle-stop tour through the most important considerations.

The Stripping of Enamel

One of the most directly impactful problems associated with eating disorders – particularly Bulimia Nervosa – is the harmful effects of stomach acid on the enamel (the cap that shields the sensitive parts of the tooth from damage). During the purging (vomiting) that’s chronic with Bulimia, destructive acids frequently bathe the tooth, exposing the most vulnerable parts to decay and disease. 

Cavities Due to Poor Diet

The fundamental binging component inherent in Binge-eating Disorder and Bulimia is commonly associated with the consumption of readily available, high-calorie, high-sugar foods. 

We all know sugar causes cavities by rotting the teeth, and given the frequency, duration, and volume of these foods consumed during a binging session, those suffering are at a particularly high risk.

If left untreated, cavities can progress to become extremely painful: abscesses develop, and more lengthy and costly treatment becomes necessary. Through a simple in-person assessment, it doesn’t ever have to reach that stage. 

The Dangers of Poor Nutrition

While many of the oral-related negative effects associated with eating disorders are problems of excess, there are also serious issues surrounding deficiency. 

Particularly for those suffering from Anorexia, getting adequate nutrition is a critical issue given that the person is eating very little. This has a global effect on the immune system in that the body has a compromised ability to fight off infections – including those in the mouth.

A lowered immune system can increase the risk of gum disease, which is characterized by bleeding, swollen gums that can lead to tooth loss if not dealt with quickly. Weakening of the body’s defenses due to nutritional deficiency also increases the risk of mouth ulcers – painful lesions that make it more difficult to eat and exacerbate the problem even further.

How We Can Help

Treating an eating disorder is a collaborative process: the sufferer needs the support of a caring and talented network of healthcare professionals, and alongside general practitioners, psychologists, and dieticians, Rose Dental is proud to represent part of that support group as dental professionals. 

Whether you or a loved one needs tooth restoration, cavity repair, or dental advice and help with oral care and hygiene, we’re here to offer the support you need.

To help us help you, head over to our contact page to request an appointment and find our address and opening hours. You can also give us a call at 603-882-7201.

We look forward to welcoming you to our practice soon!