Diagnosis and dental management of eating disorder patients

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are serious eating disorders that affect a significant number of young adults. Dentists play an important role in the early diagnosis and implementation of comprehensive treatment of patients with these disorders. Dental treatment modalities vary with the severity of the erosion of the dentition and the mental health status of the patient. The decision to proceed with definitive treatment is predicated upon the patient seeking psychotherapy and ceasing to vomit. A description of the early signs and symptoms of eating disorders, as well as modes of treatment for patients with various degrees of dental destruction, are presented.