The Hidden Toll: How Eating Disorders Quietly Damage Your Oral Health

There are more than 10 million Americans who are affected by eating disorders. Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating are some that a wide range of people struggle with. If you or your loved one suffers from one, then you know how it can impact your overall health, quality of life, and even relationships. Not only that, but your smile may also be affected. Here’s how and what you can do to get stronger teeth and the support you need.

How Can Eating Disorders Affect My Oral Health?

The first physical signs of an eating disorder often manifest through the mouth. Nutritional deficiencies and other oral changes can have severe consequences over time.

For instance, someone with anorexia may not eat enough to support their body. Without the right minerals and vitamins, their immune system may weaken. They might be more prone to infection, including those found in the mouth, such as gum disease. This condition can lead to noticeable redness and inflammation in the early stages and gum recession and tooth loss as it’s left untreated.

Those with bulimia may consume more, but they often expel it soon after. Not only does this get rid of any nutrients, but it also exposes teeth to stomach acids. The backs of these structures may start to erode and struggle defending against attacks from bacteria, making them more prone to decay.

Binge eating can also be trouble in the long run. Many often overindulge in foods that are high in carbohydrates, which can feed plaque. The by-product they make can dissolve the outer layer of teeth and cause cavities over time.

What Can I Do to Protect My Smile from Harm?

While you may have an eating disorder, it’s important that you try to keep up with your smile. Doing so will help you avoid more serious complications like tooth loss. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep up with brushing and flossing twice daily. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste, as it can help make your enamel stronger.
• If you struggle with purging, then rinse your mouth immediately after. That way, you wash away any acids.
• Drink plenty of water if your mouth is dry. This will keep it moist and help you clear out anything lingering.

Who Do I Go to For Help with My Eating Disorder?

In the end, you should find help with your eating disorder. While it’s easy to feel ashamed about it, your dentist is here for you. By being honest about any behaviors you have, you can get the support you need to make sure your oral health doesn’t falter, and know who to reach out to.

It may still be nerve-racking talking to someone directly about these disorders, so consider looking online at organizations like the National Eating Disorders Association. Resources like these can give you a wide range of information that can prove to be fruitful for your oral and overall health.

About the Practice

At Dental Health & Wellness Boston, our team of compassionate dentists is dedicated to helping patients in the local community understand the connection between their overall health and their smile. We are proud to offer a wide range of dental treatments without any judgment, so you get the strong smile you deserve. Better yet, we can give you personalized advice to make sure it doesn’t falter between visits. If you want to make sure your grin is in great shape, schedule an appointment or call our office at (617) 742-1220.