Robert D. Follweiler
D.D.S., P.A.
Periodontology and Laser
Technology
Please visit our Web Site @
Follweilerperio.com
The summer
is coming soon. This brings an abundance of
activities as well as added pressure for many students. For some young people
going back to the beach represents renewed attention to clothes and body image.
Adolescents as well as adults may be susceptible to embracing our cultural
obsession with weight. Unfortunately the media often sends the message that it
is more important to be thin than to have a healthy attitude toward body image
and eating.
As dental
professionals we often are confronted with the first signs of an unhealthy diet
or an eating disorder. An estimated 1-2
million Americans meet the diagnostic criteria for anorexia and bulimia. An increased number of males are seeking
treatment for these disorders as well. When someone develops and eating
disorder, the entire body is affected by the lack of vitamins and minerals. This
can lead to problems with their bones and soft tissue which includes the teeth
and gums. If the body is nutrient deficient it cannot
fight against normal bacteria and the bad bacteria that is responsible for gum
problems and tooth decay will flourish. This will result in tooth loss,
periodontal disease and other systemic problems.
During
regular dental visits the symptoms spotted in the oral cavity may allow early
intervention and treatment before the problems become life altering. One of the
first symptoms of an eating disorder may be tooth sensitivity and tooth erosion
(wearing away). There also may be signs of chipping especially on the biting
edges of the teeth. Unhealthy eating and regurgitation may also contribute to
decalcification of the teeth and increased dental decay. Other symptoms of eating disorders include
dry mouth, sores in the corners of the mouth and generalized gingival
inflammation with sore or bleeding gum tissue.
The real
number of people afflicted with eating disorders is hard to determine because
this group of diseases is characterized by secrecy and denial. If an eating
disorder is suspected a trip to the dentist may be the first step to getting
the help needed. While treatment is in progress there are ways to minimize the damage
to the mouth caused by this dangerous disease. Please call our office for more
information.
