Sensitive teeth, severe dental erosion and facial pain are therefore common symptoms of patients with anorexia and bulimia.
Everything we put into our mouths affects our overall health, but there are some eating habits that have the disadvantage of contributing specifically to poor oral health as well.
Eating Disorders: Teenagers and young adults are more prone to suffer from eating disorder such as bulimia nervosa – secret binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting which, because of the high levels of acid in the vomit, can severely erode tooth enamel and cause decay. Sensitive teeth, severe dental erosion and facial pain are therefore common symptoms of patients with anorexia and bulimia.
Constant Eating: People who snack constantly throughout the day are at the other spectrum of the scale, as their increased risk of tooth decay comes from the constant supply of food that feeds the plaque that forms on teeth, producing acids that then attack tooth enamel and contribute to tooth decay.
Alcohol Consumption: Researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine found a direct correlation between the amount of alcohol consumed and the risk of gum disease. Gum disease is the first step to periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. In addition, high alcohol consumption has been linked to an increase risk of oral cancer, especially when combined with tobacco use.
In addition to identifying oral cancer and dental problems linked to known patient habits, sometimes dentists can identify health problems patients have no idea they have, such as diabetes. Because of this, it is vital to maintain a regular schedule of dental visits, for both your oral and overall health.
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Dr. Librada C. Yamat is a Family Dentist specializing in Cosmetic Dentistry. She has been practicing since 1992 in her Daly City office located at 187 Southgate Ave. (650) 991-2832. She is president of the MCU Dental Alumni Association and former president of the American Federation of Filipino Dental Practitioners.