Bulimia is an eating disorder in which a person binge-eat huge amounts of food. They then purge the food by throwing up fast, using laxatives or exercising in excess in an attempt to rid their bodies of all the extra calories. Constant cycles of bingeing and purging are not only hard on your kidneys, heart, and other organs in your body, but it can be especially damaging to your teeth. A dentist Indian River can fill cavities, help care for your gums, and repair broken teeth caused by bulimia, but the long-term solution would be to seek treatment for your eating disorder. 

Effects of Purging On Your Teeth and Mouth

Vomit is especially toxic because it contains stomach acids, and repeated vomiting can cause serious damage to the teeth. These acids break down food in your stomach so your body can digest it, but in the mouth, these acids are corrosive. They are enough to wear away your tooth enamel that covers and protects your teeth. Brushing too hard after vomiting should be avoided as it can greatly contribute to tooth decay. 

Bulimia and Your Teeth

Dental conditions caused by bulimia can be fixed by your dentist. However, seeking medical help to address the condition would be a long-term solution and would be best for your oral health as well. Here are the effects that bulimia can do to your mouth and teeth:

• Cavities – The acids from frequent vomiting can cause enamel erosion which eventually leaves a hole or cavity. 
• Yellow, Brittle Teeth – As the erosion gets worse, the color and texture of your teeth change and your teeth may become more brittle and weaker than usual. They can chip easily and sometimes, they’ll turn yellowish. Bulimia can also alter the shape and length of your teeth.
• Swollen Salivary Glands – The acids in vomit can irritate the glands on the sides of each cheek. These glands are responsible for producing saliva, the fluid that helps you swallow and protects your teeth against decay. 
• Mouth Sores – Stomach acids from vomit not only wears away the enamel on your teeth. It can also wear away the skin on the roof and sides of your mouth and damage your throat. This can leave painful mouth sores that can swell up and even become infected. 

Need to Get In Touch With a Dentist Indian River?

Bulimia can also cause dry mouth, pain, and sensitivity. Our dentist Indian River can help you repair the damage on your teeth caused by bulimia. Contact Smooth Sailing Dental today so we can get started with your dental treatment. We can also refer you to a physician that can provide you a long-term solution to your eating disorder. Reach out to us for more information.