Today eating disorder is one of the most serious health issues being faced by numerous people across the world. Research shows that almost 10 million Americans are affected by serious eating disorders and many of them suffer in silence. But the question is, “Does eating disorders affect our oral health and if, then how?” Well, it is true that eating disorder does affect our oral health. Keep reading the blog post.
Eating Disorders and Oral Health Problems
Due to a lack of proper nutrition, our gums and other soft tissues in the mouth may bleed easily. The glands responsible to produce saliva may swell and we can experience chronic dry mouth. It can cause lingering or even permanent damage to teeth and mouth. However, the early detection of eating disorders may provide us a smoother recovery period for body and teeth.
Different Types of Eating Disorders
Any individual can suffer from an eating disorder but it is most common among teenagers. These disorders can have a negative impact on our health as well as the quality of life such as self-image, relationships, and academic performance. So, if you are suffering from eating disorders, it is important to talk to your best Dental Clinic Jaipur but first, we should know different types.
- Anorexia: It deals with an extreme fear of gaining weight or becoming fat. It means the person who has anorexia suffers from a fear of getting weight or being fat even when they are underweight. They limit the amount of food they intake and excessively exercise. Sometimes after eating in excessive amounts, they also try to throw out the food by vomiting to get rid of extra food and calories.
- Bulimia: Like Anorexia, it also deals with being overweight but it also includes hidden periods of overeating. It means the person suffering from this eating disorder eats compulsively and then tries to get rid of the food by vomiting, exercising or taking laxatives. It can happen several times a week or in most cases, several times a day. It causes unhealthy eating habits of sweets and fatty food and followed by purging.
- Binge Eating: This disorder can affect both men & women and the persons who have this disorder are described as “food addicts”. It involves compulsive eating by people and followed by guilt or depression but not purge. It means they overeat but do not try to get rid of the food by vomiting or excessive exercise. Rather they overeat again due to feelings of guilt.
How It Affects Oral Health?
All of these eating disorders have a negative impact on our bodies. It causes a lack of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that leads to body function improperly. The vitamin and nutrient deficiencies also cause negative effects in the mouth especially for those who purge. The stomach acid due to vomiting can damage teeth. It includes:
- Dry mouth and teeth erosion.
- Enlarged salivary glands.
- Cracked, dry lips and sore mouth
- Cold or hot sensitivity in teeth.
Ways for Prevention
If you are also suffering from an eating disorder, these tips can help you in reducing issues with oral health. Let’s have a look:
- Regular brush and floss your teeth and maintain meticulous oral health. You can consult with Dental Clinic Jaipur.
- If you purge, then do not brush immediately after vomiting. You can rinse your teeth with baking soda to neutralize the effects of stomach acid.
- Consult and visit your dentists regularly about your treatment requirements.
Conclusion
This is a brief guide on eating disorders and their effect on oral health. If you want more help in relation to treatments and precautions, visit the best dentist in Jaipur. They are dental professionals who notice your mouth and teeth and provide necessary suggestions.