Oral implications of eating disorders: a review

Eating disorders (ED) are psychopathological conditions where patient demonstratesabnormal, distorted or chaotic eating behaviours and diet patterns which can deteriorate an individual's physical and emotional wellbeing. Manifestations of ED range from disruption of normal lifestyle to generalised weakness to even life threatening complications. Oral health care providers can be the first to notice the presence of previously undiagnosed eating disorders from the typical oral manifestations of the condition and instigate the multidisciplinary treatment required. However, there is a general lack of knowledge and awareness about the role of oral health care practitioners in the diagnosis, intervention and treatment of affected patients. This article reviews the recent literature on eating disorders and their subsequent oral manifestations. The authors have made an effort to highlight the information which will aid the oral healthcare professionals with diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of these disorders.