Sample Script
The following script provides basic guidelines for oral health care practitioners to initiate a conversation with a client who is presenting signs of eating disorders.
The following script provides basic guidelines for oral health care practitioners to initiate a conversation with a client who is presenting signs of eating disorders.
Introduce the Issue
- I notice (name the conditions, such as erosion, redness, trauma, etc) on your teeth, gums, tongue, throat, etc.
- This is something I have seen in individuals who engage in (name the behavior: eg, vomiting, consuming excessive diet soda, etc).
Ask for More Information
- Can you tell me about any behaviors you may be currently engaged in that could be having this effect on your mouth?
- If they answer positively to having an eating disorder, continue below. If they do not acknowledge an eating disorder, discuss a tailor self-care regime, which may include fluoride use, rinsing with baking soda, etc.
Provide Resources
- Are you currently seeking professional help related to these behaviors?
- Because eating disorders affect your oral, mental, and physical health, it is very important to seek professional help from a counselor, medical doctor, nutritionist, support group, or some combination of these. For information on eating disorders and treatment referrals, contact the National Eating Disorders Association at (800) 931-2237 or visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.
Discuss Next Steps
- While you are seeking help and establishing healthier eating behaviors, I would like to suggest some immediate options for improving your oral health (ie, fluorides, saliva substitutes, rinsing with a bicarbonate of soda and water, avoidance of brushing immediately after vomiting, etc).
Contact the National Eating Disorders Association for more information and FREE BROCHURES for your waiting room. Available while supplies last.
National Eating Disorders Association at:
603 Stewart St, Suite 803
Seattle , WA 98101
(206) 382-3587
info@nationaleatingdisorders.org
©2002, National Eating Disorders Association. All Rights Reserved. The above material is copyrighted and may be reproduced or used for educational and non-profit purposes only, with acknowledgment of the National Eating Disorders Association.
