Hookah Tobacco and Teeth

If you are a lover of water pipes, also known as hookahs, and have been told that they aren’t as bad as cigarettes, Dr. Michael Eisenbrock, DDS of Bensalem Family Dentistry is sorry for being the bearer of bad news –you’ve been misinformed. Studies show that water pipe smoking is just as harmful as cigarettes if not more.

Hookah tobacco (shisha) is a combination of tobacco, sweetener, and fruit. Many believe that shisha is safer to smoke because it is filtered through water before being inhaled. Though it does not leave you smelling like an ashtray, it has similar health risks associated with smoking cigarettes. Smokers increase their risk of developing dry mouth, bad breath, and especially, oral cancer. The best thing you can do for your oral health is to kick the habit altogether.

If you have questions or concerns regarding how smoking affects your oral health, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bensalemfamilydentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Eisenbrock, DDS at Bensalem Family Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call us at 215-638-9952.

How Diet Plays into Dental Health

You are what you eat. Therefore, if your diet isn’t up to par, chances are, neither is your oral health. Oral health and nutrition go hand-in-hand and Dr. Michael Eisenbrock of Bensalem Dentistry is here to explain how. Foods that are high in carbohydrates, sugars, and starches largely contribute to the production of plaque acids that attack tooth enamel and cause decay. So if you refuse to give up your junk food, be sure that you’re visiting us at least twice a year for routine cleanings.

When it comes to your oral health, just like weight loss, your body will see positive results when the right foods are consumed. If you favor cookies, candies, and starchy snacks, make wise choices, or limit the number of snacks you eat. Foods that protect your teeth include nutritious foods such as vegetables, plain yogurt, or a piece of fruit. It also helps to drink plenty of water and (as always) brush your teeth twice a day, with fluoride toothpaste that has the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, and floss at least once a day.

If you have questions or concerns about your oral health status, please give us a call. To learn more about services we offer, visit www.bensalemdentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Eisenbrock at Bensalem Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call 215-638-9952. 

Pregnancy and Oral Health

Taking care of your mouth while you are pregnant is important for you and your baby. Changes to your body when you are pregnant can make your gums sore or puffy, causing them to bleed. At Bensalem Dentistry, we want you to know that receiving oral health care, practicing good oral hygiene, eating healthy foods, and practicing other healthy behaviors will help keep you and your baby healthy.

Delaying necessary treatment for dental problems could result in significant risk to you and your baby. For example, a bad tooth infection in your mouth could spread throughout your body. You should continue to see your dentist during pregnancy for oral examinations and professional cleanings to avoid issues such as pregnancy gingivitis. Usually, gum inflammation appears between the second and eighth month of pregnancy. Signs of pregnancy gingivitis range from redder-looking gums that bleed a little when brushing teeth, to severe swelling and bleeding of gum tissue.

If you are pregnant, give us a call if you are due for a dental checkup. To learn more about services we offer, visit www.bensalemdentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Eisenbrock at Bensalem Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call 215-638-9952.