You many have not considered the direct impact of Bulimia and your oral health.

What is Bulimia?

Bulimia is a condition that causes the sufferer to uncontrollably binge on food. The sufferer typically uses at vomiting or the abuse of laxatives as a way of avoiding weight gain.  In some cases, the sufferer even develops anorexia nervosa. Bulimia is more common among females as compared to males.

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic conduct thorough examinations to detect any oral changes in patients suffering from bulimia. These changes normally include:

  • Swelling or inflammation in the salivary glands
  • Dryness or soreness in the tongue
  • Sore throat
  • Presence of small bruises on the mouth’s roof
  • Affected  tooth enamel

Effects of Bulimia on Oral Health

As a result of frequent vomiting triggered by bulimia, the tooth enamel is more likely to erode overtime. This usually happens on the inside of the sufferer’s upper front teeth. As the enamel starts wearing away, the chances of decay increase. The tooth can also become sensitive to heat or cold. And when this erosion gets severe, it affects the way upper and lower teeth come together. This may even lead to the shrinking of the back teeth.

In many cases, tooth erosion takes around two to three years to become obvious but it isn’t found among all bulimia patients. Some bulimics may suffer from malnutrition, which increases the likelihood of experiencing periodontal or gum disease.

Tips to Help

In order to reduce the damage brought by stomach acid when the sufferer vomits, it is better to rinse the mouth with water or a mouthwash that contains fluoride. Brushing the teeth after vomiting can worsen the weakened enamel. But if brushing becomes necessary, it is advisable to use toothpaste that has fluoride in highly concentrated form.

It is also essential to drink water- especially when you have dry mouth. Talk to your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic about any oral conditions that you may have as they know best about treating your dental problems. For more information please feel free to Contact Brighton Implant Clinic or Call us on 0800 111 6623 .

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