Risk Factor: Eating Disorders

Symptoms

Food addiction, mood disorder, binge eating, mental disorder, feelings of strong shame or guilt around eating

According to the National Eating Disorders Association, more than 10 million Americans are affected by serious eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating.

Eating disorders can affect a person’s oral health because of food restriction. Lack of nutrients that promote oral health like calcium, iron, and B vitamins will lead to nutritional deficiency. Insufficient calcium can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. A lack of iron and B vitamins may foster the development of mouth sores, bad breath, and canker sores. Gums and soft tissues inside your mouth may bleed easily and become swollen, which can be a sign of gingivitis. Individuals may experience chronic dry mouth from swollen saliva glands.

Frequent vomiting can damage the enamel of your teeth because of repeatedly exposing them to the strong acid from your stomach. Over time, your teeth may become brittle and discolored, changing shape and length. The edges of teeth may begin to weaken so much that they break. Hot or cold food or drink may become very uncomfortable to consume.