Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate V · Biochemistry and Nutrition · 06

Eating disorders

Bulimia nervosa cycles between bingeing and purging. Repeated vomiting erodes the lingual surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth (perimylolysis), usually after about six months, and can enlarge the parotid glands and callus the knuckles. Anorexia nervosa brings dry mouth and severe weight loss. Advise rinsing with water or a baking soda solution after vomiting and waiting 30-60 minutes to brush.

High-yield facts · 4

  1. Bulimia nervosa: binge-purge cycles; signs include lingual erosion of maxillary anterior teeth (perimylolysis), parotid enlargement and calloused knuckles (Russell sign).T5
  2. Anorexia nervosa: severe restriction; signs include dry mouth, low body weight, lanugo and possible erosion if purging.T5
  3. Erosion from vomiting usually appears after about 6 months of regular purging.T5
  4. Advise rinsing with water or a sodium bicarbonate solution after vomiting and delaying brushing for about 30-60 minutes.T2

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.