Benefits of a Tongue Scraper

It’s no surprise that the surface of the tongue is a breeding ground for bacteria. What you may not realize is that if you’ve ever looked in the mirror and seen a white film on your tongue, the organisms that you see can cause infections in the teeth and gums and are responsible for bad breath. Bad breath can have a huge negative impact on a person’s life, relationships, and self-esteem if left untreated. This is why Dr. Michael Eisenbrock at Bensalem Family Dentistry recommends incorporating a tongue scraper into your oral hygiene routine if you haven’t done so already.

Tongue scrapers, which are available in most drugstores in various shapes and sizes, have been promoted as a way to reduce or eliminate bad breath entirely. To use this device, you place the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue and gently bring it forward along your tongue, repeating as often as needed. If you have a coated tongue – a buildup of debris, bacteria and dead cells on your tongue – tongue scraping might be helpful. However, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene overall, by brushing your teeth and tongue at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day. In addition, don’t forget to schedule professional cleanings and oral exams twice a year.

If you have questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.bensalemfamilydentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Eisenbrock at Bensalem Family Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call 215-638-9952.

Bad Breath

The topic of bad breath can be tough to confront, whether it’s yours or someone else’s. And, whether or not you know you have it, it’s always a good idea to take steps against bad breath—as they are often one in the same with good dental hygiene.

 

Most bad breath can be traced to a source in the oral cavity, whether it’s trapped food particles or potent beverage residue, bacterial and plaque buildup, unclean dental prosthetics, gum disease, or even cavities. Many of our patients here at Garrison Family Dentistry regularly ask us what they can do to prevent bad breath.  Besides completing all necessary dental work and consistently undergoing regular exams, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce bad breath on your own.

• Drink plenty of water: Drinking water helps flush away food and beverage residue. It also keeps your teeth and gums hydrated, which inhibits bacteria growth.
• Reduce intake of coffee and alcohol: Both substances can contribute to suborn breath and dehydration.
• Abstain from all tobacco products: Cigarettes, pipes and chewing tobacco all contribute to fouls breath and other periodontal issues that feed into the problem.
• Brush, floss and use alcohol-free mouthwash every day: Good oral hygiene controls bacteria and prevents a number of dental problems. Your at-home hygiene efforts are extremely important in keeping your smile beautiful and fresh.