Effects of bulimia on teeth

Article by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Gastrointestinal endoscopist - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

Bulimia is an eating disorder in which people eat too much food. They then "purge" what they eat by vomiting, fasting or using laxatives, and exercising excessively in an attempt to get rid of all the excess calories in their bodies. However, all of these things can be harmful to your teeth.

Binge eating disorder is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder. People with bulimia may eat large amounts of food uncontrollably, but then purge, trying to get rid of excess calories in an unhealthy way.
To eliminate calories and prevent weight gain, people with bulimia can use different methods such as:
Self-induced vomiting Abuse of laxatives, weight loss supplements, diuretics or enema . Use other ways to eliminate calories and prevent weight gain, such as fasting, strict dieting, or excessive exercise. Symptoms of bulimia include:
Being preoccupied with body shape and weight Living in fear of weight gain Repeatedly eating unusually large amounts of food Feeling out of control when eating Forcing yourself to vomit or exercise Excessive exercise Taking laxatives, diuretics, or enemas after eating Fasting, restricting calories, or avoiding certain foods between meals Excessive use of supplements or herbal products to weight loss The severity of bulimia is determined by how many times you cleanse each week, usually at least once a week for three months.

2. Vomit repeatedly and your teeth Repeated vomiting can cause serious damage to your teeth. Vomit is especially toxic because it contains stomach acid. These acids break down food in your stomach so your body can digest it. But in the mouth, these acids are corrosive enough to wear away the enamel that covers and protects your teeth. Brushing too hard after vomiting can also contribute to tooth decay.
Tooth decay Acids from frequent vomiting can wear down tooth enamel to the point of leaving holes or cavities. Abstaining from sugary foods and soft drinks can also contribute to tooth decay. When you have tooth decay, you may find your gums bleed when you brush your teeth. If left untreated, the cavity will become so large that you could lose a tooth.
Yellow, brittle teeth As erosion gets worse, you may also notice a change in the color and texture of your teeth. Your teeth may be weaker and more likely to break than usual. They can be corroded easily. Sometimes they will turn slightly yellow or look like glass. Sunken cheeks can also change the shape and length of teeth.
Swollen salivary glands The acids in vomit can irritate the glands in the cheeks. These glands produce saliva, the liquid that helps you swallow. It also protects your teeth against decay. You will notice swelling around your jaw if your salivary glands are affected. Although most of the changes to your teeth caused by bulimia bulimia are irreversible, the problem of salivary gland swelling should subside with the onset of bulimia. you get treatment and stop vomiting, regurgitation.
Mouth sores Just like stomach acid erodes tooth enamel, it can also wear down the skin on the roof and sides of your mouth and throat. This can leave painful sores inside your mouth and throat. . The sores can swell and even become infected. Some people feel a constant sore throat.
Dry mouth Lack of saliva can also lead to a feeling of dry mouth, which is not only annoying but also affects the way you enjoy the taste of food.
Oral pain When your enamel wears away, it exposes the sensitive insides of your teeth. You may start to notice that the tooth hurts. Some people experience pain and sensitivity whenever they eat hot or cold foods. They may find it uncomfortable biting into an ice cream cone or eating something hot like soup. Damage to the gums and soft palate can cause additional pain when chewing or swallowing.

3. Treatment of dental problems caused by bulimia The short-term solution to the dental problems caused by bulimia is to treat the oral conditions. Your dentist can fill cavities, repair broken teeth, and take care of your gums. The long-term solution, however, is to seek treatment for your bulimia.
In short, in addition to causing internal harm, bulimia can cause long-term harm to the body. Teeth and mouth are at high risk of infection and decay. Therefore, if you suffer from bulimia, go to a medical facility for examination and proper timely treatment.

References:
Bulimia: caring for your teeth. (2012) eating-disorders.org.uk/information/caring-for-your-teeth/. Eating disorders awareness: Bulimia nervosa. (2015, January 29) ohioline.osu.edu/ed-fact/pdf/1003.pdf Long term effects of bulimia? (n.d.) goaskalice.columbia.edu/long-term-effects-bulimia Mayo Clinic Staff. (2016, January 29). Bulimia nervosa. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bulimia/basics/definition/con-20033050 Mayo Clinic Staff. (2014, May 30). Cavities/tooth decayRetrieved from mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/basics/definition/con-20030076 Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015, August 25). Dry mouth. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/basics/definition/con-20035499 Oral health fact sheet for dental professionals: Children with eating disorders. (2011) dental.washington.edu/wp-content/media/sp_need_pdfs/Eating-Dental.pdf