By Brianne Jones, RDH
Anorexia, Binge Eating, and Bulimia are all eating disorders that can take a serious toll on a person's health. They raise the risk of heart failure, cause malnutrition, block the intestines from normal function, trigger seizures, lower the thyroid and sex hormones, lead to kidney failure, and more.
More than 10 million Americans struggle with an eating disorder. Most sufferers are between the ages of 12 and 25 and the symptoms are alarming.
They also prompt a multitude of dental problems.
According to the National Eating
Disorders Association, here's what eating disorders do to your teeth and gums:
Eating disorders are nothing to smile about. In some cases they can be life threatening. Research shows anorexia has the highest death rate of any psychiatric disorder.
If you suspect your teen struggles with an eating disorder, seek help from your pediatrician or family doctor right away. Discuss treatment options and ask for referrals to healthcare providers such as dietitians, nutritionists, therapists, psychologists, dentists and psychiatrists. Seek out a support group and talk to your child's school counselor.