Bulimia Dental Erosion — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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EasyHuman DiseaseBulimia Dental ErosionMFDS Part 1

A 22-year-old patient reports recurrent self-induced vomiting associated with bulimia nervosa. Which oral finding is most characteristic?

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Correct answer: C — Erosive tooth wear affecting the palatal surfaces of the maxillary incisors

Explanation lettering: B = shown as A · E = shown as B · A = shown as C · C = shown as D · D = shown as E

A is correct. Recurrent self-induced vomiting exposes the teeth to intrinsic gastric acid, causing erosive tooth wear, traditionally termed perimolysis. The characteristic distribution particularly involves the palatal surfaces of the maxillary incisors, which are directly exposed to vomitus; more extensive surfaces may become involved as the condition progresses. Gingival enlargement is more commonly related to plaque inflammation, medicines or systemic disease. Calculus results from mineralisation of dental plaque and is not characteristic of bulimia. Supernumerary teeth and enamel hypoplasia are developmental abnormalities and are not acquired consequences of vomiting.

Reference: Eating disorders through the periodontal lens, oral effects of vomiting-associated eating disorders, 2021. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/bulimia/