Self-induced vomiting, the most common purging behavior for individuals with bulimia nervosa, can cause serious dental problems.
Signs of bulimia teeth can start within 6 months of binging and purging behavior, which is why dental professionals are often the first to catch the signs. Some of the telltale signs of bulimia teeth include:7
- Enamel erosion: As enamel is eroded, teeth may become more transparent or see-through. Enamel erosion will be noticed most prominently on the upper teeth facing the tongue.
- Changes to the appearance of teeth: If teeth become severely eroded, teeth can become more easily broken or cracked which can result in jagged-looking teeth.
- Tooth discoloration: Once enamel is eroded away, dentin becomes exposed. Dentin is the surface of the teeth below the enamel and has a dark yellow/orange/brown color.
- Teeth and gum sensitivity: Teeth may become overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. The gums may also become irritated, painful, and bleed.
- Dry mouth and lips: Reduced saliva production and general dehydration are common and may cause the mouth to feel dry and lips to become itchy and crack at the edges.
- Swollen or puffy jaw: Swelling or puffiness may be visible around the mouth near the ears. This is due to the swelling of the salivary glands.
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