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Anorexia nervosa (AN) may be a mental health disorder, but it can have a number of physical consequences, including an impact on dental health.
Tooth loss, tooth erosion, and tooth enamel damage are all possible, and may be difficult to reverse. So it's important to take as good care of your oral health as possible, whether or not you struggle with AN.
One of the biggest reasons anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders affect oral health is the lack of proper nutrients being received by the body. People with AN commonly restrict food, which can lead to a lack of key vitamins and minerals needed to promote oral health.
Calcium is often the most impactful of these minerals, as it plays a big role in building strong teeth. Without enough calcium, teeth are at risk of decay. However, to absorb calcium, the body also needs sufficient levels of vitamin D.
Those with anorexia nervosa also tend to have low levels of iron and vitamin B, which can lead to additional issues.
And those who struggle with purging-type anorexia nervosa, which involves purging behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, may encounter even more risks to their oral health, since this frequently introduces corrosive stomach acid into the oral cavity.2
Anorexia nervosa can promote poor oral hygiene, and is associated with many side effects and complications on teeth and gum health, including:
Dental treatment for anorexia teeth will vary depending on the individual and the specific problem at hand.
The first step is often addressing the potential for any 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. In rare situations, when a tooth is severely decayed, 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
For someone struggling with AN or bulimia nervosa (BN), brushing the teeth and gums directly after purging can further damage the mouth. Instead, an individual can:8
If teeth must be brushed, it’s better to wait at least an hour before doing so, to avoid causing more damage. Using basic, alkaline toothpaste and avoiding sugary foods and drinks can also help cut down on potential damage.8
Dentists may also generally suggest using a fluoride rinse to use at home to help prevent further decay and strengthen enamel. And maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing daily, is essential.
Often, dental professionals are among the first people to notice signs of anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders. Individuals with AN 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 remains confidential, and the dental office should feel like a safe resource during the healing process.
But there are many other options for those looking for help, including comprehensive treatment plans that fold in different aspects of therapy, nutritional education, and medical support.
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.
Disclaimer about weight loss drugs: Within does not endorse the use of any weight loss drug or behavior and seeks to provide education on the insidious nature of diet culture. We understand the complex nature of disordered eating and eating disorders and strongly encourage anyone engaging in these behaviors to reach out for help as soon as possible. No statement should be taken as healthcare advice. All healthcare decisions should be made with your individual healthcare provider.
