Oral Health Problems Associated with Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder where a person eats plenty only to expel it from the body using forcible techniques such as vomiting, excessive exercise, and the use of laxatives. This condition affects the overall health of a person, primarily because the body does not get the essential nutrients it needs. Induced vomiting due to bulimia also has specific effects on a patient’s oral cavity, some of which are the following: Dry Mouth Bulimic patients experience low salivary production because of frequent vomiting. When this continues, this may lead to severe xerostomia or the dry mouth syndrome. Since there is no saliva to moisturize the mouth and fight bacteria, the teeth become vulnerable to decay. The acids from sugary food easily destroy the enamel because there is no saliva to neutralize the harmful substances. Gingivitis Episodic vomiting causes acids to stick to the gums and teeth. If not dealt with properly, this eventually leads to gingivitis. This condition is characterized by the swelling of the gums, which makes it more difficult to eat and speak. Other gingivitis effects include bleeding, bad breath, and gum sores. Severe cases of this periodontal disease result in gum recession and tooth loss. Tooth Decay The acids from the digestive system that pass through the mouth when a bulimic patient throws up destroy the dental structures. Tooth decay exposes the gum tissues and the rest of the oral cavity to bacteria. These organisms can migrate to other parts of the body, particularly the heart. A dentist in Scottsdale, together with other dental specialists elsewhere, helps patients avoid this risk by treating cavities immediately. Tooth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity is another dental problem that bulimic patients face. This complicates the eating disorder because it makes chewing a difficult task; therefore, the body absorbs lesser nutrients than the initially small amount. The regular vomiting episodes cause enamel erosion, making the teeth more sensitive to contact, heat, and coldness. A dentist in Scottsdale and other cities treats tooth sensitivity through cosmetic dentistry techniques like veneer installation and composite resin sealant application. Tooth Discoloration Oral health problems caused by induced vomiting also lead to tooth discoloration. From a natural white, the teeth become yellowish, bluish, or even translucent. A dentist in Scottsdale AZ solves tooth discoloration through teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry procedures.
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