[TW: this email discusses eating disorders.]
More than 10 million Americans have eating disorders, a condition that creates an unhealthy relationship with food. For many people, increased stress, anxiety and isolation from stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic worsened symptoms associated with eating disorders.
Eating disorders can play a role in oral health. Here's how.
Types of eating disorders
There are a variety of eating disorders, but these are the three most common:
- Anorexia
- Bulimia
- Binge-eating
Oral health complications
In addition to serious — even life-threatening — overall health problems, eating disorders can cause a host of oral health issues. A lack of nutrients, especially calcium and vitamin D, along with the highly acidic nature of vomit, can result in:
- Eroded enamel
- Brittle, translucent teeth
- Cavities
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Discolored teeth
- Dry mouth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tooth loss
Risk factors
Eating disorders are more common in teenage and young adult women. However, they also occur in boys, men and older women. It’s important to know the risk factors and warning signs. While the exact cause of eating disorders is unknown, some factors that may increase risk include mental health disorders, frequent dieting, bullying, stress and isolation.
Watch for these warning signs
Symptoms vary depending on the type of eating disorder. In addition to oral health complications, some possible indicators of an eating disorder include a change in eating habits, significant weight loss or gain, excessive exercising and mood swings.
There is no shame if you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder. Eating disorders are common, but manageable and treatable. Click on the button below to learn more about how eating disorders can affect your oral health and how you can get help.
