Oral Health in Patients with Eating Disorders: Current Evidence, Diagnosis, and Management

Abstract

Eating disorders (EDs) are severe psychiatric disorders associated with abnormal eating behaviors and significant systemic complications. The prevalence of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder has increased among adolescents and young adults globally. Oral manifestations are among the earliest clinical indicators of EDs and frequently serve as diagnostic clues for dental professionals. Dental erosion, xerostomia, salivary gland enlargement, periodontal disease, mucosal lesions, and dentinal hypersensitivity are commonly associated with chronic nutritional deficiencies and recurrent vomiting behaviors. Recent systematic reviews have highlighted the importance of early oral screening and multidisciplinary management in improving overall patient outcomes. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding oral manifestations of eating disorders, diagnosis, and management strategies.