Dentists urged to spot eating disorders
by Guy Hiscott
Dentists are being encouraged to spot eating disorders and bulimia among patients suffering from tooth erosion.
Over 1.6 million people in the UK suffer from an eating disorder, almost half of which (40%) are bulimic.
Regular vomiting can result in tooth erosion, and bulimia sufferers and those with eating disorders are also being advised to routinely check their oral health.
Dentists are now being urged to use their position as a health professional to point out steps to prevent future tooth wear and health problems.
Professor Andrew Eder, clinical director of the London Tooth Wear Centre, said: ‘We understand the challenges faced by sufferers and are here to help, so don’t be worried about talking to your dentist.’
The figures were revealed by Beat (www.b-eat.co.uk), which helps sufferers in the UK beat their eating disorders.
Beat are running Eating Disorders Awareness Week this week between 24 February – 2 March 2014 with the aim of raising awareness of the health implications of these disorders.
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Photo courtesy of peter_w
