Ulrica Gidlund

My research focuses on optimizing dental care for patients with eating disorders, addressing both clinical and psychosocial aspects to reduce suffering and stigma associated with oral health problems in this vulnerable patient group.

Research goals

The main goal of my research is to develop effective, compassionate treatment strategies that can be integrated into routine dental care, supporting patients’ recovery and quality of life throughout the course of their illness, not just after medical rehabilitation.

Insights from our studies

Individuals with eating disorders commonly experience significant dental erosion, caries, and tooth loss, but current guidelines often advise postponing dental treatment until after medical recovery, which can exacerbate oral health problems.

Patients describe oral health issues as a visible, lasting reminder of their illness, affecting daily life, self-confidence, social interactions, and mental well-being.

Many report feeling isolated and underserved by dental professionals due to gaps in knowledge, limited personalized support, and inadequate integration of oral rehabilitation into their overall care plans.

Improving dental support and care during all stages of an eating disorder can rebuild hope and identity for these individuals, enhancing their self-esteem and recovery journey.

Clinical application

• My research advocates for dental professionals to provide precise, individualized care, integrating oral health support into broader recovery            plans.
• The aim is to close current knowledge and treatment gaps by using insights from both clinical experiences and patients’ perspectives,                       ultimately improving health outcomes for patients with eating disorders.
• This research has high relevance for both clinical practice and patient empowerment, positioning Karolinska Institutet and Folktandvården              Stockholm at the forefront of innovation in patient-centered dental care.

Our work has been recognized and supported by: