Bulimia teeth problems

The Stomach acid from vomiting can cause serious dental problems.

Your body’s stomach acid is hydrochloric acid, is very powerful and is designed to break down the food in your stomach. Your stomach's lining is also designed with a protective shield for this acid. However other surfaces, like tooth enamel, are vulnerable to severe erosion and destruction from this. When you pruge your body tries to protect your teethby inducing saliva, however this will not guard against damage from continual and repeated vomiting.

Tooth decay may be difficult to spot at first however with continual vomiting and no dental treatment it can become severe. Acid approaches the teeth from behind as it flushes out the mouth; this is where the erosion begins. Dentist can sometimes easily detect this and will elaborate the importance of using a fluoride mouth.

Effects of Bulimia on Teeth

•    Enamel erosion of all teeth due to the chronic exposure to acid in vomit.
•    Teeth perhaps suffering from severe acid erosion will need a lot of dental work
•    Increased cavities due to increased carbohydrate intake during binge-eating and vomiting.
•    Vomiting can lead to parotid gland dysfunction; this can create a dry mouth and increase the risk of cavities.
•    Small, purplish-red lesions on the mouth palate caused by forceful self induced vomiting can lead to infection.
•    Erosion of the teeth will leave raised silver fillings as the teeth shrink away.
•    Stomach acid will also erode and dissolve dental cement, braces and other fixtures may be affected.
•    Acid can cause discoloration or teeth leaving them look grey and dull.
•    Cavities and decay can lead to the development of abscesses.  Which can result in needing root canal treatment or tooth extraction.
•    Bleeding gums and sensitive teeth
•    Gum disease
•    Severe dental pain