evelopment of sores in the oral cavity, as well as premature arthritis and osteoporosis in the jaw and teeth. These latter two issues also play a role in tooth decay, tooth loss, degradation of the jaw and pain in the temporomandibular joint, which is where the jaw hinges to the skull. Inadequate nutrition also weakens the gums and makes an individual more prone to gum disease, as well as gums that are swollen, receding, quick to bleed and shiny in appearance.
Purging through vomiting also has a severe impact on oral health. The stomach acid wears away at the dental enamel over time, making teeth more susceptible to cavities and breakage, as well as sensitivity to temperatures. Stomach acid can also re-shape the teeth over time, making them flatter and dingy in color, or even translucent. This thinning and wearing away of the biting surface is what makes the teeth more susceptible to breakage.
Treating an eating disorder can be difficult because of how multifaceted the disease is: it affects a person’s physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. It also can’t be cured overnight, making it important for a person to have a solid support network of patient, supportive friends and family in order to make a complete recovery.
In addition, dental professionals also need to be gentle and supportive if they suspect a patient may have an eating disorder, and it’s crucial that they know where to guide patients for treatment and support. Although dental professionals cannot cure eating disorders, they can play a pivotal role in recovery by helping to heal the physical damage by improving the appearance of teeth, and providing gentle guidance to help the patient play an active role in improving the health of the gums and underlying bones by paying closer attention to their oral health. By reducing these physical “scars” of the disease, a patient may begin to feel better about themselves as they continue through mental, emotional, and physical rehabilitation with the rest of their medical team.
If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, there is help available. You can call a free, confidential helpline at 1-800-931-2237, or text “NEDA” to 741741 if you are in a crisis situation. In addition, the National Eating Disorder Association website is full of great resources for treatment and support. It’s never too late to make a change in your life or someone else’s, and your dentist is here to help you along in your journey.