Bulimia, also called bulimia nervosa, is an eating disorder where the sufferer eats usually large amounts of food in one sitting (binge) and then expels it right after with vomiting (purge). This can happen in excessive cycles, causing emotional and mental distress.[1] Everyone is aware about the impact bulimia can have on physical and mental health, and how it can hamper one’s social and professional life. However, have you ever given it a thought, that bulimia may affect tooth health too?
In this blog, we will discuss the causes of bulimia, its signs and symptoms, how it affects the patients’ oral health and treatment methods.
What is bulimia and what causes it?
A common eating disorder that typically affects women in the age groups of adolescence or early adulthood, the exact cause of bulimia is not known. However, researchers suggest a mix of genetics and learned behaviour.[1]
At the same time, societal pressure and extreme standards set by social media can contribute to low self-esteem issues. People with bulimia are usually of a normal weight but they perceive themselves as being overweight or obese. Some individuals might just find one region to be particularly bulky and wish to lose weight in that part, e.g., just thighs, or tummy, etc. While it is common for many of us to not like a part of the body, the difference is that a person with bulimia tends to obsess over losing weight to an extreme level. They resort to excessive exercising or purging by inducing vomiting repeatedly or using laxatives to ‘lose’ the perceived extra weight.[1]
Signs and bulimia symptoms and tooth health disruption
Bulimia can be hard; not just on the patient, but also on the family members. It can be difficult to identify especially in the initial stages. However, a telltale sign could be laxative packaging and frequent visits to the bathroom immediately after eating. Some other symptoms include: [1][2]
- Obsession over body image
- Exercising to the extreme
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Guilt or shame associated with eating
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- Tiredness
- Bloating/constipation
How does bulimia affect tooth health?
Bulimia can affect oral health in a number of ways. Firstly, when the patient vomits, the acids from the stomach come in contact with the mouth and the teeth. Repeatedly vomiting multiple times a day for weeks or months on end, leads to ulcers in the mouth and erosion of the outer layer of the teeth called enamel.[1]
Secondly, people with bulimia often resort to having energy drinks to help them get through their day. The high sugar content in these drinks can cause cavities. Lastly, those using too much of laxatives to lose weight can dehydrate your body, decreasing saliva production. This, in turn, increases the acid content in the mouth, giving rise to cavities.[3]
Treatment of bulimia and restoring oral health
Bulimia is treated with cognitive-behavioural therapy, nutritional counselling, and anti-depressants.[1] During the treatment process of the eating disorder, doctors may give an appliance that safeguards the mouth and teeth against the stomach acids. Fluoride treatments in the form of gels are also prescribed to help with tooth decay and infections.[4]
After all the treatments and once bulimia is under control, the enamel loss can be treated with composite resin or amalgam. In cases of severe erosion, extractions followed by veneers or crowns may be undertaken. [3]
Dental aligners can also be used to correct issues with the teen arrangement caused during the erosion process.
Conclusion
Bulimia is an eating disorder that affects oral health due to the mouth coming in contact with the stomach acids due to repeated vomiting. Early detection is crucial to avoid irreparable damages to both physical and mental health. When you see the signs of the disorder, a quick visit to the doctor is recommended. With proper care, it is possible to recover and lead a healthy life once again. Be sure to check regarding clear aligners cost with your dentist if you are looking at tooth realignment.
