Anorexic and Bulimic Teeth Need Special Care

Your eating habits play a huge role in your dental health. If you have an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia, your teeth may be in trouble. The self-induced vomiting common to bulimia sufferers exposes tooth enamel to potent stomach acids on a regular basis. The subsequent acid erosion on teeth may quickly lead to tooth decay, cavities and tooth loss. It’s a common problem seen in as many as 89 percent of bulimia patients. If you suffer from anorexia, your limited diet and nutritional deficiencies can also damage your teeth and the bones that support them. When you have an eating disorder, it’s essential to get help from your dentist to save your teeth while you work towards a healthier lifestyle.

Common Signs of Anorexia and Bulimia Effects on Teeth

Anorexic and bulimic teeth show characteristic signs of damage that your dentist can recognize. The signs and symptoms listed below are common consequences of eating disorders.

• Exposed dentin resulting in infection or pulp death
• Weak, brittle, and translucent teeth
• Unexplained, sudden tooth pain
• Increased sensitivity to cold or heat
• Signs of acid erosion on teeth
• Tooth decay related to excessive rinsing or brushing following vomiting
• Enlarged salivary glands
• Dry mouth or cracked lips
• Loss of gum tissue
• Changes in the shape, length and color of anorexic and bulimic teeth

Protect Yourself from Acid Erosion on Teeth

Changes in your mouth are often the first physical signs of an eating disorder. It’s important to seek treatment for your eating disorder to prevent serious and potentially fatal medical complications. If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of anorexic or bulimic teeth, talk with your dental care professional about developing a strategy to help protect yourself from acid erosion of teeth and other damage, and improve your overall oral health while you obtain treatment for your eating disorder.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Owings Mills, call Valley Dental Associates today at (443) 898-1240 or make an appointment.