'Hubble-bubble leads to trouble'--waterpipe smoking and oral health.

ABSTRACT

UNLABELLED Waterpipes are used to smoke tobacco by more than 100 million people worldwide. Use is not restricted to any single racial, ethnic, or cultural group, and dentists are almost certain to encounter waterpipe users amongst their patients. This article describes what the practice involves and seeks to inform members of the dental team of the significantly detrimental impacts of waterpipe smoking on both general and oral health and how'hubble-bubble really can lead to trouble'. Advising patients on ceasing waterpipe use is also discussed. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This paper explains what smoking a waterpipe involves, the associated misconceptions of safety amongst users and the dangers to health.