6 Effects Bulimia Has On Your Teeth

Bulimia is an eating disorder that’s described as a destructive pattern of eating and purging (vomiting) to control weight. This cycle of constant bingeing and purging not only causes stress on the heart, kidneys and other organs but it can be especially damaging to the teeth.

Cavities

Vomit is toxic because it contains stomach acids. These acids are corrosive and can wear away the enamel that covers and protects your teeth. This in turn leads to tooth decay. Brushing teeth too hard after vomiting can also cause tooth decay. Bingeing on sugary foods and fizzy drinks can also contribute to tooth decay.

Yellow Brittle Teeth

The colour and texture of the teeth can change as the erosion gets worse. As the enamel erodes, the dentine is exposed which is yellow in colour. Teeth will become more brittle and chip easily.

Mouth Sores

Stomach acid can also wear away the skin of the roof and sides of your mouth and damage your throat. Painful sores can then develop in the mouth and throat which can become infected and swollen.

Swollen Salivary Glands

The acids can also irritate the glands on the side of your cheeks which produce saliva. Infected swollen salivary glands will reduce saliva production in the mouth which is what protects your teeth against decay.

Dry Mouth

A lack of saliva production is known as dry mouth which can affect the way you eat by changing the flavour of food. 

Dry mouth can also be damaging to the teeth as saliva washes away bacteria that causes tooth decay.

Pain

As the enamel of the teeth wears away it exposes the dentine which is the sensitive inner part of your teeth which can make your teeth hurt. Other symptoms are sensitivity or pain to hot or cold food or drinks.

Treatment

The short term solution is treating the dental conditions such as filling the cavities and replacing broken teeth. The long term solution is to get treatment by arranging an appointment with your GP. The following sources can provide help and support: 

•  www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
• www.youngminds.org.uk

Get in touch

For further advice or support for your teeth please call the Mayhill Dental Centre on 01600 712020 or email info@themayhill.co.uk