Can Dentists Detect Eating Disorders in Children & Teens?

At Whalen Dentistry, we want our dental family to feel safe and comfortable in our practice, and for each experience in our care to be positive. We also want our patients and their families to be informed, which sometimes means discussing heavy topics—today’s heavy topic is eating disorders.

Wondering why a dentist would broach the subject? Diet is a critical component for excellent oral health, and your Cornelius family dentist, Dr. Ryan Whalen can spot signs of malnutrition or acid erosion during an examination that, when combined with other signs, can be indications of either anorexia or bulimia. Both eating disorders are most common in young women between the ages of 15 to 25.

No Judgment Zone

As medical professionals, we want you to know that if we suspect disordered eating, there will be no judgment or admonishing, but we will be concerned and try to encourage treatment and prevention methods that can alleviate some of the risks to your child’s oral health.

If you have any questions or concerns or would like to schedule a visit, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you and your loved ones reach your best levels of oral health wherever you’re starting from.

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.