Bulimia effects the backs of the upper front teeth first. When someone throws up, digesting food is hurled against the back of the upper front teeth and they begin to melt away. When the tooth enamel is gone, the teeth look yellow since the exposed dentin is yellow. An early sign of dentin exposure is tooth sensitivity and gum inflammation, gingivitis.

          As it progresses some other bulimia effects are that the enamel on the backs of the upper molar teeth dissolves. If left untreated, the patient's exposed dentin is susceptible to dental cavities. Without dental treatment the teeth will continue to decay and the acid digests them until the teeth are killed. At this point they can only be saved with root canal therapy and crowned to protect what is left. Stomach acid can also cause inflamation of the esophagus, sore throats, and hoarseness of speech. Without treatment, the destruction continues until the teeth are completely destroyed.

          The parotid glands are located on the back lower sides of the face at the corner of the lower jaw. They make saliva to moisten food while you chew and are the glands that swell up in mumps. Bulimia effects the parotids by causing them to enlarge giving the patient enlarged jowls and an enlarged lower jaw. At first the swelling is soft but later becomes hard and permanent with continued vomiting. In some cases, the bulimia patient's bite changes so much that causes constant TMJ related facial pains.

           The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Dr. Padolsky and Dr. Smith are familiar with how bulimia effects teeth and can usually provide all of the dental services needed to restore a bulimia patient back to good dental health. For an appointment, call 404-874-7428.