Eating Disorders: Medical, Dental & Oral Health Considerations

Eating disorders represent a complex spectrum of chronic illnesses, with medical and psychological complications that lead to the second highest mortality of all psychiatric disorders. It is a problem that is epidemic on our college campuses. Members of the dental team play an integral role in helping to identify those patients with undiagnosed eating disorders. In fact, because of oro-facial manifestations they may be the first health care providers to encounter such patients and will be instrumental in making appropriate referrals for further diagnostic work-up and treatment.

This presentation will address the psychological, medical, dental and oral health issues associated with these disorders as well as dental management considerations. Discussion will lend itself to the negative impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on eating disordered individuals.