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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Does prolonged bulimia damage teeth?

    Related Topics
    Eating Disorders Mental Health Oral Health
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    Dr Kevin Jaffar

    Dentist

    Jaffar Dental - Trusted and Established since 1997. We are a family owned General Dental Practice offering a friendly and caring environment in Waterford QLD. … View Profile

    Yes as the acid in the reflux erodes the enamel tooth structure that strengthens teeth. Also some filling materials can erode away as well.

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    Dr Mehran Shaibani

    Dentist

    Dr. Shaibani covers all aspects dentistry from simple to most complex dental rehabilitation cases.He is a member of ADA and ADAQ and a few other … View Profile

    Yes it will. Stomach produces very strong acid and our teeth are made of minerals, so when they come in contact the acid will dissolve the tooth/ enamel. 
    It should also be noted that when one vomits they are best rinsing their mouth with plenty of water straight away to wash away the stomach acid from the mouth. 

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  • Dr Roland Chong

    Dentist

    Bulimia is a condition which impacts negatively on teeth when contents from the stomach come into contact during periods of vomiting. The acid from the stomach will soften the enamel, which is the outer layer of the tooth, leading to thinning of the teeth. 

    When the tooth enamel eventually wears away the dentine layer is exposed and this part of the tooth will dissolve faster than enamel. Eventually the tooth is reduced in size leading to bite problems, poor cosmetics, lost of teeth from structural breakdown and teeth dying.

    When the bulimic condition is present for long periods the teeth will be damaged to a greater extent. This may or may not impact on the long term prognosis of the teeth and the overall oral health of the individual.

    Management of the bulimic condition early will prevent irreversible damage to teeth but more importantly the individual in question needs to address the underlying medical issue for better long term health.

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