​Eating disorders and oral health

Caring for teeth and gums are important when experiencing an eating disorder.

What is oral health and why does it matter?

  • Oral health is the overall health of your mouth including your teeth, gums and tongue.
  • Behaviours associated with an eating disorder, such as restrictive eating and/or vomiting, may affect your oral health.
  • Looking after your oral health may improve your quality of life.

Signs and symptoms of poor oral health

  • dry mouth
  • sensitive teeth
  • swollen or bleeding gums
  • tooth wear and chipped teeth
  • holes in your teeth (tooth decay)
  • sores or ulcers in and around your mouth
  • pain or swelling in and around your mouth.

How can teeth and gum problems be prevented?

Maintain good oral hygiene:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day (use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride).
  • Floss your teeth daily.

Should you vomit:

  • Rinse your mouth with water and apply a little fluoride toothpaste to your teeth.
  • Wait at least 1 hour before brushing -stomach acid can soften your teeth, making it easy to wear away.

Other ways to maintain oral health

  • Stay hydrated by drinking tap water –fluoride in tap water strengthens teeth.
  • Reduce smoking and alcohol intake as these can cause gum disease, tooth loss and may lead to cancer in the mouth.
  • Have regular dental check ups (every 6 to 12 months) to identify problems early and watch for symptoms between visits.

Talk about oral health

Talk to your dental practitioner, GP or other care providers for help with your concerns.

Accessing dental care

Visit your private dentist or contact your health fund for further information.
  • Find a private dentist.
  • Free dental care is available in public dental clinics. To check your eligibility, please go to health.nsw.gov.au/oralhealth/ Pages/info-patients.aspx

More information on oral health and eating disorders

A factsheet by the Australian Dental Association and National Eating Disorders Collaboration: Eating disorders - Talking to your dentist.

Mental health support services

Free and confidential

Butterfly Foundation

Kids Helpline (for people aged 5 to 25)

Lifeline

  • Call 13 11 14
  • SMS 0477 13 11 14

Beyond Blue

  • Call 1300 22 46 36

Current as at: Friday 15 July 2022
Contact page owner: Centre for Oral Health Strategy