Bulimia and dental health
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| Thu, 06-03-2004 - 1:00am |
I am trying to draw a connection here so bear with me and hopefully someone will have some insight. I would say I was bulimic during my senior year of high school. I have since gone through ups and downs (periods of binging and purging) and while deep down I guess that still means I have an eating disorder, the very idea is devastating. I am a senior in college now. Within the last 3 months my teeth have become very sensitive and at an appointment 3 months ago, my dentist affirmed that my gums were receding on one side. I have an appointment in two weeks, but I can't help but worry. Within the last month, the sensitivity has spread to nearly 75 percent of my mouth, and it's uncomfortable to change food textures and temperatures. I don't know if this has anything to do with purging since this awkward and painful sensation hasn't shown up until now. My diet isn't the healthiest (high in sugar) either. Maybe someone who has been bulimic and knows how it affects ones teeth can help me. By the way, I never purge to the point of bile.
Thanks!!

Hi Erin,
I am so sorry you are going through this and I know this must be scary. As hard as it is, try to remain positive and get your mind off things - I know that's hard when your mouth hurts.
As for the bulimia causing it, that's really hard to say. I have heard of bulimia causing once teeth to erode, but I have never heard of gum problems as a result. That of course doesn't mean it's not possible. However, if you haven't been purging consistently every day, and not to the point of bile, I doubt that it is the bulimia.
Did you tell your dentist about the bulimia? It would be good if you can be open and honest with him. It may also be a good start to working on recovery. Although I know the idea of having an eating disorder is devastating to you, you are aware that it is an issue in your life. The good thing is that you seem to be frustrated with it and maybe to work on it actively.
I would start with looking at our community website http://pages.ivillage.com/eatingdisorders/
Love & hugs, Kristina