The primary eating disorders are bulimia and anorexia. Bulimia involves a cycle of binge eating and vomiting. The stomach acids from vomiting, over time, erode the back surfaces of the upper teeth. This erosion leads to chronic cold sensitivity to the teeth as well as increased cavity occurrence. Special rinses would be needed to counter the acidity of the stomach acids to the teeth and oral tissues.
Anorexia involves semi-starvation of an individual that deprives the body of necessary nutrients. Osteoporosis can develop, weakening the bones in the jaw that support the teeth. A dental panoramic x-ray can detect some very early occurrences of osteoporosis and if evident in young women or adolescents can lead to an early detection of anorexia and intervention.