Eating disorders awareness week is an international campaign to help fight the myths and misunderstandings about eating disorders.

Eating disorders are very complex illnesses, there is no single cause and they can be very serious.

The campaign encourages people to get treatment and seek help sooner. People suffering with an eating disorder often feel very ashamed and so they do not talk about it and they put off seeking help or don't seek help at all. The sooner any treatment begins, the higher chance of recovery.

If you have an eating disorder or think you may have, please talk about it and seek help quickly.

One type of eating disorder, Bulimia is hard on the heart, kidneys and other organs but is especially damaging to teeth. Repeated vomiting can cause serious damage to teeth, wearing away the enamel that protects your teeth, leading to cavities, pain and eventually tooth loss.

The teeth will become weaker, they can chip easily and become 'ragged'. The shape and length of the teeth can also change. Unfortunately, the effects aren't reversible, but your dentist can help to repair broken teeth and help you to care for your teeth and gums.

Being able to care for your teeth is extremely important if you struggle with Bulimia and being upfront with your dental team can help you to protect and to repair your teeth.

If you have an eating disorder that may be damaging your oral health, get in touch. Everything you tell us is confidential. We're here to help. We won't judge.

For more information about eating disorders go to https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/edaw or

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/get-involved/nedawareness