bulimic & worried about my teeth - Eating Disorder Recovery Message Board

joey11 · 03-28-2002, 04:53 PM

Does anyone know how to protect your teeth and gums from the stomach acid? I have heard cleaning your teeth after vomiting actually eats away at the enamel. Would a good mouthwash work. My gums are staring to recede and I am really worried about losing my teeth.
I am not really Bulimic but sometimes I feel really sick after overeating and I make myself vomit. I would just like some advice about how to protect my teeth in the meantime.
Thank you

[This message has been edited by joey11 (edited 03-28-2002).]

mel333 · 03-31-2002, 09:31 AM

Hi Joey,
I'm not sure what works here. When I was throwing up alot my teeth did get prity stained. My dentist was able to clean them off. But I also smoke so I'm not sure what the stains were from. Mouthwash may be useful I used to drink alot of water after which seemed to help and floss. You should get some medical advice on this one. If you are not throwing up very often maybe your gum problems are from something else. I would see a dentist for a check and clean because gum problems are commom and could be due to lots of reasons.
Mel

Tricky · 03-31-2002, 05:56 PM

Hi joey,
There is no way to protect your teeth from stomach acid. Obvious things like brushing often will help slightly, but as long as you binge and purge, expect to damage your teeth and gums.

Stigma · 03-31-2002, 07:45 PM

Brushing your teeth with baking soda once in a while may help a little, but stomach acid is so strong that I know from experience there isn't anything that can stop it from dissolving the enamel.

Take care.

Whatzsleep? · 05-12-2002, 05:28 PM

I realize you do not feel you are bulimic, but vomiting after overeating is definitely bulimia. As for you gums and teeth, I recommend going to a endodonist. A dentist that specializes in treating gum disease. Brushing your teeth after vomiting is going to ruin your teeth no matter what you do. Brushing makes it worse. I know from experience.Almost all my teeth are crowns, something that happens after years of purging. The only thing I can suggest if you are going to continue to vomit after meals, is to do so immediately after eating when the stomach has the least amount of acid in it. But the best suggestion is to get help with your overeating and then you will not need to feel like you have to vomit. It is hard but I have faith in you. good luck

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