Eating Disorders and Oral Health

Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, can have devastating effects on your health, including your teeth.

Anorexia is marked by an extreme restriction on how much is eaten, while bulimia is associated with binging and purging, or vomiting after eating. The effects on teeth and oral hygiene are:

  • Tooth erosion

Caused by stomach acid in vomit and by lack of nutrition, many people who suffer from eating disorders suffer from tooth erosion. Teeth that have eroded might chip easily, appear translucent, and become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. If enamel has been lost, some restoration techniques include veneers and crowns.

  • Tooth decay

Eating disorders often cause nutritional deficiencies, including calcium. If your body needs calcium and doesn’t have it, it will draw calcium from bones and teeth, possibly leading to tooth decay.

  • Increased risk of infection in the gums

Other nutritional deficiencies caused by eating disorders are a lack of vitamin D and iron, which are necessary to fight infection. Without proper nutrients, there is an increased risk of gum disease.

  • Dry mouth

Highly restrictive eating and frequent vomiting can cause the salivary glands to swell and decrease production. Saliva neutralizes the acid in your mouth and without it, there is an increased risk for tooth decay and infections in the mouth.

Help and support is necessary for recovery, so if you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, please let your healthcare provider know.

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    From start to finish, a great experience! Nice clean office. The front desk staff was friendly, on the way in & on the way out. My hygienist was absolutely amazing, she was sweet and gentle, she asked questions, and gave advice. Dr Wanat was professional and let me know what was necessary and didn’t try to have me come in for a bunch of unnecessary work, I was extremely pleased with my visit as a new patient.

    Jamie Rosen

    I am 71 years old and I have been to many different dentists over the years. Dr. Wanat is kind, compassionate and gentle. I would highly recommend him for your dental care. Maria is also kind, compassionate and gentle. They went above and beyond to accommodate my needs. They were a blessing to me!

    Deborah Nixon

    I am a new patient this week. I was pleasantly greeted and all the staff were very friendly. They were all exceptional in explaining my care. Dr. Wanat was also excellent explaining my options for a dental care plan. I had all my x-rays and a cleaning today. I look forward to begin next week starting the plan we have in place.

    Robert Harris

    My husband and I both very happy with this dentist. All of the young ladies that work there are super. They know their job and make you feel special. Dr. Want does not do any procedure that is not needed. He is the best dentist I have ever had!!!

    Anita Gray

    The dental hygienist Amber was very attentive and caring during my initial visit. She was also very proficient with reviewing my x-rays and providing both helpful and practical feedback/recommendations for ways to improve my dental cleaning routine at home. Dr. Wanat was friendly and honest, and he seemed genuinely invested in addressing my concerns. He and Amber also thoroughly explained the plans for my future visits. The office manager was very friendly and accommodating with scheduling as well.

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