Bulimia is a serious eating disorder that involves binge eating followed by purging. Binge eating is the consumption of a large amount of food in a short period of time, while purging involves methods to get rid of the food consumed, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or using laxatives. Bulimia can have a devastating impact on a person's physical and mental health, and it can even be fatal.
Dentists are in a unique position to spot the signs of bulimia. They can look for signs of tooth erosion, which is caused by the stomach acid that is brought up into the mouth during purging. They can also look for signs of gum disease, which is caused by the bacteria that can grow in the mouth as a result of purging. In addition, dentists can ask their patients about their eating habits and any concerns they may have about their weight. If a dentist suspects that a patient may be bulimic, they can refer them to a doctor or other healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.