Currently 1 million people in Australia are experiencing an eating disorder. An Eating Disorder such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa or Binge-Eating has many physiological effects on your body including affecting your oral health.
The effects on your teeth can include erosion, which is the thinning of the outer tooth surface caused by acids from either your stomach (if vomiting) or from some types of food/drink. Another oral risk is decay, as bacteria use sugars to make decay or “holes” develop in teeth.
The warning signs of an Eating Disorder aren’t just related to your oral health, there are various physical, psychological and behavioural warning signs that can signal the onset or the presence of an eating disorder. The National Eating Disorder Collaboration website provides more information about detecting the warning signals and seeking help. https://www.nedc.com.au/
If you or anyone close to you might be suffering from an Eating Disorder, we highly encourage seeking help. Don’t forget you can always confide in your dentist!
