Eating disorders are a serious mental health condition that affects many people around the world. It is estimated that up to 30 million Americans may struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

An eating disorder is defined as a condition characterized by abnormal eating habits that negatively impact a person’s physical and mental health.

One of the lesser-known symptoms of an eating disorder is its impact on dental health.

Dental problems often occur in individuals with an eating disorder due to various reasons, including the frequent intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages and poor oral hygiene.

Dental Clues That Indicate an Eating Disorder

If you are concerned about an eating disorder in yourself or a loved one, paying attention to dental symptoms can be one of the ways to identify it. Below are some dental signs to look out for that may indicate an eating disorder:.

1. Erosion of Tooth Enamel

Enamel erosion is a common dental problem in individuals with eating disorders. This is because the frequent intake of sugary or acidic foods and vomiting which occurs from puking meals causes enamel’s breakdown.

Erosion may cause tooth sensitivity, crumbly, or rounded teeth edges.

2. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and food may be a sign of enamel erosion. Individuals with eating disorders commonly experience enamel erosion due to sugary or acidic diets and vomiting and can cause extreme tooth sensitivity.

This may be a warning sign of an eating disorder, and one should seek dental checkups to know the precise cause of the sensitivity and the necessary treatment.

3. Cavities Developing

Cavities are another common dental problem that individuals who have eating disorders commonly face. These arise from a diet that prioritizes sugary foods and drinks. The clogging of food and a reduction of saliva flow results in cavities.

The best practice to avoid filling cavities is to visit a dentist regularly and ensure healthy oral hygiene practices.

4. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands produce less saliva leading to a parched and uncomfortable feeling. The self-induced vomiting can trigger a reduction of saliva flow leading to a dry mouth.

The intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages cause dry mouth water to balance leading to severe tooth decay. Patients should take sugary items in moderation to combat dry mouth.

5. Mouth Sores

Individuals with eating disorders commonly face mouth sores. The acid produced when vomiting can cause irritation and inflammation of the mouth lining. The acid uncontrollably spreads to the mouth region, leading to a feeling of discomfort.

Visiting a dentist is an excellent way to rectify such pain.

6. Gum Infection and Bleeding

Poor nutrition, such as lack of vitamin C, can lead to swollen and bleeding gums, also known as gingivitis. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in strengthening gums and preventing infections.

Individuals with eating disorders who avoid a balanced diet miss its nutrients, leading to gum infections. However, other factors, such as poor oral hygiene practices, can cause gum infections. Therefore, if your gums bleed when you brush or floss, visit a dentist to identify the root cause.

7. Excessively Cracked and Chipped Teeth

An eating disorder may cause you to chew excessively on snacky, crunchy, and hard foods, such as ice, lollipops and due to the lack of balanced meals. This may lead to excessive chipping and cracking of teeth, creating an imbalance in the jawbone.

It may lead to severe tooth sensitivity and pain, impacting the patient’s smile and overall appearance. Regular checkups will help to identify any such triggers and remedy the situation.

8. Enlarged Parotid Glands

Parotid glands are the salivary glands that are located in front of our ears that produce saliva. Patients with bulimia who self-induce vomiting often overstimulate these glands, which leads to their enlargement.

Enlarged glands may also create a puffy appearance in the cheeks, affecting the overall facial structure.

9. Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is associated with the eating disorder Anorexia. The diet lacks a balanced intake of nutrients such as carbohydrates that are necessary for oral hygiene and salivary glands.

Individuals with Anorexia also frequently skip meals and use mints or chewing gum to mask the smell of their breath. Halitosis may be treated by regularly visiting a dentist to identify the root cause of the bad breath.

10. Jaw Tension

The muscles of your jaw may become tensed through excessive chewing of foods and stress. Tension to the jaw may lead to temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

TMJ occurs due to the imbalance of the upper and lower jaw and may spread on to your neck and shoulders. Resolving tension to one’s jaw may require visiting a dentist for a comprehensive checkup and recommendations.

In Conclusion

Eating disorders are serious conditions that affect both mental and physical health. Dental problems are some of the lesser-known symptoms of an eating disorder, but they can be severe.

Individuals with eating disorders should prioritize healthy oral hygiene practices for their mental and physical well-being. If you suspect you or your loved one has an eating disorder, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early interventions can help prevent serious dental and overall health problems.