Introduction

Eating disorders vary in type and presentation, and can affect approximately five million Americans each year.1 These illnesses typically occur in adolescent girls or young women. It is estimated that 3% of young women have an eating disorder and more than twice that number have clinical variants.2-4 Eating disorders are more prevalent in industrialized societies and occur in all socioeconomic classes and major ethnic groups in the United States.5-7

Because dental hygienists and dentists examine clients at frequent intervals and have established rapport with their clients, they are in a unique position to identify an eating disorder. Oral health professionals must have knowledge of the etiology, symptoms, and treatment options available to encourage individuals with an eating disorder to seek intervention. This course provides oral health professionals with information that will enable them to appreciate the complexities of eating disorders, recognize types of eating disorders, and integrate oral health care treatment for individuals who present with clinical manifestations.