The presence of gastric acid in your mouth from regular vomiting may cause damage to your teeth and gums, most commonly teeth enamel erosion.
Dentist Dr. Brian McKay explains why almost a third of bulimia patients are first diagnosed through a dental visit. “The recurring vomiting of bulimia produces a distinctive teeth enamel erosion pattern that is like a signature in a person’s mouth. There is no other erosion pattern quite like it. We can tell if the person is relatively new or a chromic purger. There’s no way to stop the hydrochloric acid from the stomach stripping the teeth of protective enamel.”
Eating disorders also affect the mouth and teeth in other ways:
Cavities
Teeth Enamel Erosion
Gum pain
Dry mouth
Chronic sore throat
Inflamed esophagus
Hoarsened
Palatal hemorrhages
Decreased saliva production
Enlarged Parotid glands
Problems swallowing
Jaw alignment abnormalities
And as Dr. McKay explains, dental science and materials have progressed to the point where restoration can be successful, but only if the patients has stopped actively purging.
More Information
Looking for Treatment? Call 1-877-211-5188 Anytime
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder and need help entering into recovery then please call 1-877-211-5188 anytime and we can help you with treatment and recovery options.
Find a Treatment Facility Near You
Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.
The Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
Related Resources
Dental-health.com: Tooth Enamel Erosion
Vegsource.com: Tooth Enamel Erosion
Thejcdp.com: Tooth Enamel Erosion
Related Articles
Esophagitis
Estrogen Levels
Emaciation
Videos
Youtube.com: Tooth Enamel Erosion
Books
Amazon.com: Tooth Enamel Erosion
News
Google News: Tooth Enamel Erosion
