Bulimia Nervosa and Your Oral Health
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder involving cycles of binge eating followed by purging, and it can have a significant effect on your teeth and mouth. Frequent exposure to stomach acid can wear away tooth enamel, increase sensitivity, and raise the risk of cavities and gum problems. Ocotillo Trails Family Dentistry offers gentle, non-judgmental dental care to help protect your smile alongside your broader care team.
San Tan Valley (480) 457-1977
Gilbert (480) 963-9900
Mesa (480) 830-3344
Bulimia Nervosa Problems
People with eating disorders can suffer from oral health problems as well. This is because many of the behaviors associated with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa—such as binge eating, self-induced vomiting, and use of diuretics or laxatives—cause changes in the mouth.
For example, repeated episodes of vomiting, which is common in people with bulimia, release harmful stomach acids that pass through the mouth and can erode tooth enamel, causing cavities, discoloration and tooth loss. Other problems, such as poorly fitting fillings and braces, are another byproduct of such eating disorders.
Brushing after episodic vomiting is actually more harmful than one would think. The best practice is to rinse thoroughly with a neutral solution such as baking soda and water.
Call our office to find out how you can achieve your whitest smile.
Neighborhoods We Serve
Ocotillo Trails Family Dentistry is proud to welcome patients from San Tan Valley and the surrounding communities, including:
Driving Directions to Our San Tan Valley Dental Office
Visiting us for oral health concerns related to bulimia nervosa? Find Ocotillo Trails Family Dentistry at 40815 N Ironwood Rd #102, San Tan Valley, AZ 85140. Take N Ironwood Road toward E Ocotillo Road, enter the property, and continue to Suite 102.