Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, not only affect overall health but also have negative effects on oral health. While symptoms can range from slight to severe, dental professionals can recognize these signs early on, which is essential for early intervention and treatment. Fort York Dentist, a Dental Clinic in Downtown Toronto, is here to outline common eating disorders, their impact on oral health, and how a dental clinic can identify disorders and provide help. 

Identifying Eating Disorders 

Eating disorders impact individuals’ relationships with food, body image, and overall well-being. Among various eating disorders, the most common ones include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Follow along as we review each in more detail. 

• Anorexia Nervosa. Anorexia nervosa involves severe food restriction and calorie limitation, typically as a result of a fear of gaining weight. In this case, self-worth is typically attached to calorie intake and one may punish themselves when eating the wrong foods. 
• Bulimia Nervosa. Bulimia Nervosa can be characterized by binge-eating episodes (eating an excessive amount of calories at once) followed by purging behaviours, such as vomiting, taking laxatives, or excessive exercise. 
• Binge Eating Disorder. Binge eating disorder happens when one consumes large quantities of food uncontrollably, often resulting in feelings of guilt and shame. Binge eating can be characterized by eating at a faster rate than normal, eating large portions when not hungry, or eating until one is uncomfortably full. 

Impact of Eating Disorders on Oral Health 

Eating disorders can have detrimental effects on one’s overall health and oral health. In regard to overall health, one can experience their body beginning to shut down as they are not receiving the proper vitamins and nutrients they need. When it comes to the effects of oral health, some oral signs of eating disorders include the following. 

• Wear and tear of tooth enamel 
• Dry mouth or decreased saliva production 
• Enlarged salivary glands 
• Cracked/dry lips 
• Oral ulcers 
• Tooth decay 
• Tooth sensitivity 
• Mouth trauma or bruising 

How a Dentist Can Detect Eating Disorders 

Dental professionals, such as dentists, dental hygienists, and dental nurses, play a critical role in detecting the early signs of eating disorders. During routine dental examinations and check-ups, dental professionals look for and identify signs of eating disorders. Tooth erosion is one sign as those who purge and vomit come into excessive contact with stomach acid resulting in teeth enamel eroding. Additionally, injuries of the mouth that have been caused by forcing objects to induce vomiting can be detected. Tooth decay can also be a sign as it can be a result of nutrient deficiencies. 

Contact Our Downtown Toronto Dental Clinic 

At Fort York Dentist, our dental clinic encourages patients to disclose their concerns so our team can help them seek appropriate help. We can provide referrals to healthcare professionals specializing in eating disorder treatment where care and intervention can be pursued. From Cosmetic Dentistry in Downtown Toronto dental needs to helping patients with eating disorders, our clinic is a trusted and professional team. Book a consultation with us at (647) 346-8888.