Tag Archives: saliva production

Help for a bulimic

I’ve been getting treatment for bulimia and I have realized how bad my teeth have gotten because of it. Is there anything I can do to fix the damage I’ve done?

Name Withheld

The first thing I recommend is going to see your dentist. The acid from your purging is what causes the erosion on your teeth. I would drink a lot of water to help neutralize any residual acid.

Bulimia can also cause your mouth to dry out. This can lead to tooth decay, because the minerals and enzymes in our saliva helps to fight the bacteria in our mouth. Chewing on a sugarless gum will help promote saliva production.

Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment. Depending on the condition of your teeth, it may be wise to get porcelain crowns placed on them. Please be aware that this does not completely protect them from purging. There is always some space that can allow the acid through.

This blog is brought to you by Phoenix Dentist Dr. Kevin Peck.