Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes a person to have a distorted perception of their physical appearance, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and a range of negative consequences, including dental health problems. Here are 10 reasons why body dysmorphia can hurt dental health:
Excessive teeth brushing: People with BDD may be overly concerned with the appearance of their teeth and gums, leading to excessive brushing that can damage tooth enamel and cause gum recession.
Avoidance of dental appointments: People with BDD may avoid dental appointments because they are anxious about the perceived flaws in their teeth and gums, which can lead to a lack of dental care and oral health problems.
Bruxism: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common symptom of anxiety and stress, which can be associated with BDD. Teeth grinding can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, and other dental problems.
Overuse of whitening products: People with BDD may be overly concerned with the color of their teeth, leading to the overuse of teeth whitening products that can damage tooth enamel and cause sensitivity.
Self-induced vomiting: Some people with BDD may engage in self-induced vomiting to control their weight, which can cause erosion of tooth enamel and dental health problems.
Avoidance of social situations: People with BDD may avoid social situations because of their perceived flaws, which can lead to isolation and a lack of social support for dental health.
Eating disorders: Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, can be associated with BDD and can cause dental health problems, such as erosion of tooth enamel and tooth decay.
Dental anxiety: People with BDD may experience dental anxiety, which can make it difficult to receive necessary dental care and can lead to dental health problems.
Overuse of orthodontic appliances: People with BDD may be overly concerned with the alignment of their teeth, leading to the overuse of orthodontic appliances that can cause dental health problems.
Delayed treatment: People with BDD may delay seeking dental treatment because of anxiety or concerns about the appearance of their teeth, which can lead to more serious dental health problems in the future.
Overall, BDD can have a significant negative impact on dental health, and it is important for people with BDD to seek treatment to address their mental health condition and the associated dental health problems. If you think you have BDD, it's important so speak with a body dysmorphia dietitian and get connected with other mental health professionals who treat Body Dysmorphia.
