What are the effects of anorexia on teeth and oral health?
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a mental health disorder that can lead to physical complications, including effects on the teeth.
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Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a mental health disorder that can lead to physical complications, including effects on the teeth.
People with anorexia nervosa restrict food, which often means their body is not receiving the proper nutrients it needs for robust oral health. One of the primary elements necessary for strong teeth is calcium. Without enough calcium, teeth are at risk of decay. However, to absorb calcium, a person needs to get enough vitamin D. Those with anorexia nervosa also tend to have low levels of iron, which can promote mouth sores, and insufficient vitamin B, making it easier to develop bad breath.
Many side effects and complications on teeth and gum health are associated with anorexia.
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Individuals with anorexia who are experiencing mouth discomfort or noticing changes in their teeth and gums should consult with their dentist for treatment. It’s essential for people to be honest with dentists if they struggle with an eating disorder. Anything discussed with a dentist should remain confidential, and the dental office should feel like a safe resource during the healing process.
Treatments for anorexia teeth will vary depending on the individual. The first step will often address long-term damage, such as tooth decay or gum disease. In the early stages of tooth decay, a dentist may suggest a fluoride treatment to prevent further loss of the tooth’s enamel. If the teeth have more decay, the individual may need a filling or crown to replace the missing enamel and stop further damage. If the tooth pulp is damaged, the dentist could perform a root canal to remove it and clear any infections. Sometimes when a tooth is severely decayed, in rare situations it may require a tooth extraction. If the dentist needs to remove a tooth, dental implants can replace the missing tooth. (3) Dentists will typically do a deep cleaning using special instruments to clean under the gum line to treat gum disease. (4)
Dentists may suggest using a fluoride rinse to use at home to help prevent further decay and strengthen enamel. They may also prescribe a desensitizing agent to relieve gum and mouth pain. It’s also essential to maintain proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing daily.
Brushing the teeth and gums directly after purging can further damage the mouth. Instead, an individual should gently rinse with water and a sugar-free mouthwash to clean the mouth and reduce the risk of tooth decay and infection.
Seeking help for an eating disorder takes courage. The experts at Within Health understand the complexity of eating disorders such as anorexia and are available to guide all individuals through the healing process. Contact the Within Health admissions team to start the healing journey.
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Disclaimer about "overeating": Within Health hesitatingly uses the word "overeating" because it is the term currently associated with this condition in society, however, we believe it inherently overlooks the various psychological aspects of this condition which are often interconnected with internalized diet culture, and a restrictive mindset about food. For the remainder of this piece, we will therefore be putting "overeating" in quotations to recognize that the diagnosis itself pathologizes behavior that is potentially hardwired and adaptive to a restrictive mindset.