International Journal of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences (ISSN 2226-9614)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

VOLUME 29(23) (2026)

The Effect of Bulimic Patients’ Oral Condition on Dental Ceramics

Amr Mostafa Abdalmawgod Mostafa ⁽¹⁾, Ghada Abd El Fattah ⁽²⁾, Ahmed Mohsen Foad ⁽³⁾

⁽¹⁾ Master student Ain shams University, Egypt

⁽²⁾ Associate professor Ain shams University, Egypt

⁽³⁾ Lecturer Ain Shams University, Egypt

Abstract

Bulimic patients are repeatedly exposed to gastric acid through self-induced vomiting, making them particularly susceptible to dental erosion and degradation of restorative materials. This review examines the effects of the acidic oral environment associated with bulimia nervosa on dental ceramics and summarizes restorative and preventive considerations. Recurrent exposure to gastric acid promotes irreversible loss of enamel and dentin, especially on the palatal surfaces of maxillary anterior teeth, leading to sensitivity, discoloration, altered esthetics, and increased risk of wear and fracture. Acidic conditions may also affect restorative ceramics by increasing surface roughness and micro-porosity, reducing hardness and fracture resistance, and altering translucency and color stability. Lithium disilicate and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate ceramics demonstrate favorable mechanical and esthetic properties, although their surfaces remain susceptible to acid-induced degradation. Surface polishing and glazing may improve resistance to acidic challenges and help preserve the clinical performance of ceramic restorations. For minimally invasive cases, direct composite restorations can conserve remaining tooth structure, while indirect ceramic or composite restorations may be considered when erosion is extensive. Treatment planning should consider the severity and progression of erosion, the patient’s acid exposure, remaining tooth structure, esthetic requirements, and long-term restorative prognosis. Preventive strategies, including patient education, fluoride or remineralizing agents, reduction of acid exposure, and collaboration with mental health professionals, are important components of comprehensive care. Appropriate material selection and surface management, combined with control of the underlying eating disorder, may improve restoration longevity and support oral health and patient well-being. Regular monitoring is recommended to detect recurrent erosion.

Keywords: Bulimic patient, oral environment

Full length article      *Corresponding Author, e-mail: amr.mostafa1996@gmail.com; Doi # https://doi.org/10.62877/27-IJCBS-26-29-23-27

Submitted: 01-07-2026; Accepted: 17-08-2026; Published: 17-08-2026