If the eyes are the window to one’s soul, the teeth are surefire personality detectors. How you maintain your oral health, how shiny your teeth are, and what you do to keep them white and fresh are just a few things that tell the world how serious you are about physical health.
On World Oral Health Day on March 20, we caught up with some dental care experts who talked about the importance of practicing healthy eating habits, eliminating some unhealthy habits like smoking and vaping, and including basic hygiene practices to keep that smile in your face beautiful
Good health starts with oral health
Dentists Dr Syed Naveed Alam and Dr Rinta Sara Reji of RxDx Healthcare rightly said that there is no health without oral health before we lay down simple hygiene basics that most of us know but often skip, including brushing twice a day, dental flossing, proper toothbrush use and tongue scraping practice.
Among healthy eating habits, they recommended eating crunchy fruits and vegetables for natural tooth surface cleaning and increased saliva production. Dentists also reported that staying hydrated is paramount to oral health. They said that as you drink more water, it counteracts the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and drinks which in turn can damage your teeth.
Expert advice for keeping oral health under control:
- Keep your blood sugar under control to reduce your risk of gingivitis and other complications.
- Don’t ignore chronic jaw pain or clicking sounds.
- Seek professional advice for sudden changes in taste and smell.
- Schedule at least an annual dental checkup (ideally, twice a year), even if you don’t have natural teeth or have dentures.
Dr Sheetal Kochhar of Max Multi Specialty Centre, Panchsheel Park pointed out that as we age, our teeth and gums undergo changes. Maintaining good oral health like physical activity is a lifelong commitment.
From the first day the tooth erupts in the oral cavity to our old age, our oral health plays a crucial role in maintaining our well-being.
Ayurveda: Ancient art of maintaining physical condition
Ayurveda treats oral health somewhat differently, emphasizing the use of herbal and organic products and traditional techniques to keep oral health under control. Dr. Monica B. Sood, CEO of Navjivan Health Services spoke about India’s gift of Ayurveda to the world and how we can have suggestions for a holistic approach to health. He said there is invaluable knowledge and practical techniques for cultivating optimal oral hygiene at all ages and stages of life in Ayurveda.
Why Ayurveda works better than its contemporaries is because it sees oral health as an integral component of holistic wellness, emphasizing the balance of mind, body and spirit. Central to his philosophy is the concept of balancing the doshas – vata, pitta and kapha – whose imbalances can manifest as oral diseases.
Ayurvedic Oral Care Rituals:
Daily Oil Pulling (Gandusha): Start each day with a ritual swish of organic sesame or coconut oil in the mouth for 10-15 minutes. This ancient practice serves as a powerful detoxifier, eliminating toxins, bacteria and plaque, thereby boosting gum health and preventing cavities.
Herbal Tooth Powder: Replace commercial toothpaste with herbal tooth powders infused with neem, clove and babool bark. Packed with antimicrobial properties, these natural ingredients fight oral bacteria while strengthening teeth and gums.
Tongue Scraper (Jihwya Prakshalana): Take a copper or stainless steel tongue scraper to gently remove bacteria and debris from the surface of the tongue. In addition to enhancing oral hygiene, this Ayurvedic tradition increases taste perception and aids digestion.
Gum Massage (Gum Massage): Engage in regular gum massage using herbal oils such as sesame or neem oil to boost circulation, reduce inflammation and strengthen gum tissue. This practice promotes gum health and serves as a bulwark against periodontal disease.
Chewing Herbal Sticks (Datun): Embrace the age-old practice of chewing neem or licorice sticks, hailed in Ayurveda for their teeth-cleansing ability, rejuvenating properties and antibacterial efficacy. These natural chew sticks also strengthen the gums and stimulate saliva production, facilitating the remineralization of enamel.
Customized Ayurvedic Care for Every Stage of Life:
• Children (Ages 0-12): Cultivate early oral hygiene habits by introducing a gentle herbal toothpaste or powder without harsh chemicals. Encourage regular brushing by adding fun elements like colorful toothbrushes and interactive songs. Limit sugary consumables to protect against tooth decay and promote strong tooth development.
• Teens (Ages 13-19): Puberty heralds hormonal fluctuations that can affect oral health, accelerating gum sensitivity and bad breath. Along with routine oral care, support a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limiting the intake of sugary and acidic foods protects tooth enamel. Regular dental checkups become imperative to monitor orthodontic progress and prevent emerging problems.
• Adults (Ages 20-59): Amid the whirlwind of adult responsibilities, oral hygiene often takes a back seat. However, prioritizing periodic dental checkups, daily oral care regimens, and stress relief techniques remains vital. Make Ayurvedic practices like oil pulling and tongue scraping part of your morning rituals for a revitalized, healthy oral cavity. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of gingivitis and oral malignancies.
•Elderly (ages 60 and older): Aging accelerates changes in oral health dynamics, such as dry mouth, tooth sensitivity, and increased susceptibility to gum disease. The elderly must pay special attention to oral hygiene, making regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Consider incorporating fluoride mouthwashes or remineralizing toothpaste to protect aging teeth and prevent tooth decay. Sustained hydration and a nutrient-dense diet boost both oral and systemic health.
By incorporating age-old rituals like oil pulling, tongue scraping, and herbs into one’s daily routine, one can achieve not only optimal oral health but also a bright smile that reflects holistic wellness. The expert reminded that good oral hygiene goes beyond simple aesthetics. it encourages a deep synergy between mind, body and spirit, catalyzing a richer, more fulfilling life journey.
