Ayurvedic approaches for preventive dentistry in public health

Abstract

Introduction: Even though oral health is part of overall health, caries, periodontal diseases, and other conditions specifically related to the mouth, remain widespread and continue to become a public health concern. Preventive dentistry focuses on the most cost-effective, culturally appropriate, and greatest long-term sustainable methods to alleviate the burden of diseases. Considering public health dentistry, Ayurveda has most valuable, time-tested strategies to focus on the prevention of oral diseases. Moreover, Ahara (food), Vihara (activity), and Rasayana (rejuvenating methods) further demonstrates the holistic nature of Ayurveda in the mouth and overall health. Methodology: An extensive review was done. Result: Ayurvedic dentistry has classical practices for the prevention of oral diseases, practices such as Dantadhavana (herbal brushing), Gandusha and Kavala (oil pulling and mouth rinsing), Jihva Nirlekhan (tongue cleaning), and Pratisarana (application of herbal powders). These practices help to maintain oral hygiene, controlling the accumulation of plaque, reduction of the inflammation of the gums, and the overall immunity of the mouth and oral cavity. Discussion: Offered practices are socially acceptable, cost-effective, and ecofable, making them useful for community oral health programs in resource-limited countries. They do need holistic therapeutic practices of Ayurveda in integration with modern public health to prove scientific reasoning, standardization, and cross disciplinary balance.

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