Review Article on Maintenance of Oral Health through Ayurveda

Abstract

Oral diseases are becoming more prevalent now a days and can pose a serious health risk, increasing economic burden and reducing the quality of life among people worldwide. The holistic science of Ayurveda has gained global attention in the recent years as oral diseases are largely preventable through Ayurveda routines. Shalakya Tantra is a branch of Ayurveda which deals with the treatment of organs located above shoulders. Although dentistry is not explained as a separate subject in Ayurveda, it is included under Shalakya Tantra. There are nine openings of physical body and oral cavity is one among them. Ayurveda suggests frequent and regular cleaning of these openings. Digestion process begins in the mouth, oral cavity being the chief entrance, its hygiene is important. Oral cavity includes teeth, gingiva and other supporting structures of the tooth, palate, throat, oral mucosa and lips. The traditional knowledge of Ayurveda to prevent and treat diseases was passed by word of mouth from generation to generation over the centuries and is accessible to common man. Preventive aspects through diet and lifestyle modifications have been emphasized in Ayurveda. Ayurveda oral hygiene techniques are safe, effective, economical, easily available, usually without side effects and has long lasting results. They are self-care methods which can be carried out at home easily.