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Dentists Can Identify Clues to Eating Disorders

With nearly 10 million women and 1 million men suffering from eating disorders in the U.S., more dentists are becoming the first line of defense when it comes to recognizing these problems in patients-especially teens.

Though a parent may not be aware of a child's eating disorder, there are warning signs the dentist might spot in a regular check-up.

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Oral Symptoms of Eating Disorders

Many of these symptoms are caused by stomach acids brought up through the mouth of someone with an eating disorder. The dentist might notice:

  • Bad breath
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Tooth erosion, especially inside the upper front teeth
  • Tooth thinning and chipping, appearing worn and almost translucent
  • Tender mouth, throat and salivary glands
  • Mouth sores
  • Dry mouth
  • Cracked lips
  • Bleeding gums

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Side Effects of Eating Disorders

Negative effects of eating disorders include:

  • Unhealthy weight loss
  • Malnutrition
  • Emotional and behavioral changes
  • Permanent damage to teeth
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Brittle nails
  • Thinning hair that breaks and falls out
  • Baby-fine hair covering face and other areas

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How Do We Diagnose and Treat It?

When a dentist notices warning signs of an eating disorder, he or she may be able to point parents toward help. If teeth are damaged, it is important for a patient to recover from the eating disorder before pursuing restorative or cosmetic dental surgery. The person's overall health is the first priority.

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Keeping Teeth Healthy while Patients Recover

To minimize the effects of purging on the teeth, a person should immediately rinse with club soda, a sugar-free mouthwash or water. This neutralizes stomach acids that weaken tooth enamel. Only after rinsing should a person brush teeth with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

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The Important Facts

  • Though parents may not be aware, dentists may be able to spot warning signs of an eating disorder during a regular check up.
  • Dentists look for bad breath, sensitive, tooth erosion/thinning/chipping, tender mouth, sores, dry mouth, cracked lips or bleeding gums.
  • Negative side effects can be serious, including malnutrition, emotional problems, fatigue and permament tooth damage.
  • Patients can rinse with club soda, sugar-free mouthwash or water to minimize damages from purging before brushing.
  • Ask your dentist for more information regarding eating disorders and dental health.