ARFID – have you heard of it?
Chances are you know that – sadly – eating disorders have risen fairly rapidly in the last couple of decades.
That rise has been challenging on every level: from the person that suffers from the disorder, to any parent or caregiver tasked with looking after them, to the medical professionals they rely on.
Over the years, we’ve had a lot of experience with anorexia and bulimia, and the impact those conditions have on your oral health, but in recent years, we’ve become more exposed to other, lesser-known conditions.
Last week, a colleague sent me a video, focusing on ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder):
What is ARFID?
ARFID is an eating disorder that goes beyond picky eating, and is characterised by avoidance of certain foods.
That avoidance can be linked to sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or a lack of interest in eating. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID isn’t driven by body image concerns, but it can still have significant effects on overall health—including oral health.
How ARFID Affects Dental Health
Because ARFID leads to limited food choices, many individuals with the disorder miss out on essential nutrients needed for strong teeth and gums. Here’s how ARFID can impact oral health:
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
· Lack of calcium and vitamin D: These are crucial for strong teeth and bones. A deficiency can lead to weaker enamel, increasing the risk of cavities.
· Low vitamin C intake: This can cause gum problems like gingivitis or even scurvy in severe cases, leading to bleeding and swollen gums.
· Insufficient protein: Protein helps repair tissues, including gums. A deficiency may slow healing after dental treatments.
2. High Carbohydrate Diets
Many ARFID sufferers prefer processed, bland, and carb-heavy foods like bread, crackers, or pasta. These foods break down into sugars, feeding harmful bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.
3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Some ARFID patients avoid drinking enough water or prefer specific drinks, which can lead to chronic dry mouth. Saliva plays a key role in washing away bacteria, so a lack of it increases the risk of cavities and bad breath.
4. Increased Risk of Acid Erosion
Some people with ARFID tolerate only acidic foods (such as citrus fruits or certain juices). Frequent exposure to acids can erode enamel, making teeth more sensitive and prone to decay.
What if you or someone you love has ARFID?
If you or a loved one has ARFID, you can still maintain good dental health while working within food limitations:
1. Choose Nutrient-Rich, ARFID-Friendly Foods
· If dairy is tolerated, incorporate cheese or yogurt for calcium and probiotics.
· If fruits and vegetables are challenging, try blending them into smoothies or soups.
· Look for fortified foods, such as vitamin D-fortified plant-based milks, to compensate for deficiencies.
2. Be Strategic About Oral Hygiene
· Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
· Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent gum irritation.
· Floss daily to remove plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Stay Hydrated
· If water is difficult to drink due to sensory sensitivities, try infused water or sugar-free flavoured options.
· Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production and prevent dry mouth.
4. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
· If carbs are a major part of the diet, pair them with protein to reduce their impact on teeth.
· Rinse with water after eating acidic foods instead of brushing immediately, which can spread acid and worsen enamel erosion.
5. Regular Dental Checkups
As always, we’re here to help. Making sure you visit us for your regular checkups will help us catch any issues early, and take action before a problem becomes more acute.
The earlier a problem is spotted, the easier it is to rectify, and we’ve got plenty of experience in dealing with all sorts of issues, so please, please do get in contact if you haven’t been for a while.
Ketan
