EATING DISORDERS, ORAL HEALTH AND PATIENT AWARENESS ABOUT ORAL CARE

Abstract

The aim of the study: to analyze oral health complaints and awareness of oral care among people with eating disorders.
Material and methods. A quantitative study was conducted in 2025. The questionnaire was developed by authors of the study based on a scientific source [1]. It was published on the online survey platform “Apklausa.lt.” The survey link was distributed in private social media groups related to eating disorders: “Depression, Eating Disorders” and “Eating disorders.” The study included 83 respondents who currently have or have previously experienced eating disorders, including 48 women and 35 men. Participants were selected using a non-probability convenience sampling method. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 30.0. Pearson’s chi-square (χ²) test and Fisher’s exact test were applied. Differences were considered statistically significant when p < 0.05.
Results. According to the study data, anorexia nervosa was more common among women, while bulimia nervosa affected both genders equally. Individuals with bulimia more frequently reported dental erosion, ulcers/sores, and halitosis, whereas those with anorexia reported gingival bleeding and periodontal diseases (p < 0.01). Tooth sensitivity and enamel erosion were found in cases of anorexia, and dental caries in bulimia. Following self-induced vomiting, the majority (52.6%) brushed their teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste, 48.7% rinsed their mouths with water, but only 1.3% used neutralizing agents. Most information about oral health was obtained from the internet (71.7%), with only 11.3% receiving it from dentists and 13.2% from dental hygienists. Consultations with oral health professionals were rare.
Conclusions. The results of the study revealed that individuals with bulimia nervosa more frequently complained of halitosis, dental erosion, oral ulcers/sores, and a burning sensation in the mouth, while those with anorexia nervosa experienced gingival bleeding and periodontal disease. Awareness of oral health care following self-induced vomiting was insufficient, with the internet and social media remaining the main sources of information.