The Ayurvedic Viewpoint on Dental Problems
As various problems can occur within the physical body and organs, so can teeth become affected and compromised by a host of conditions. Most people are used to using harsh chemical toothpastes and mouthwashes, taking painkillers, or opting for professional dental procedures that are even more painful and invasive. But there are safer and less painful ways to care for and repair your teeth while maintaining their health and strength for years to come.
When it comes to dental conditions, Ayurveda offers an all-natural approach. It also focuses on:
- Prevention of disease
- Care and maintenance
- Repair and strengthening
- Customised treatment
- Treatment that does not disrupt other functions (like pH levels)
- Long-term results
When it comes to dental problems, Ayurveda will also treat the body as a whole, as it is a holistic science. The teeth, for instance, are directly linked to a person’s digestion, as what we eat and how we eat it largely depends on our chewing capacity.
Ayurveda also categorises people into body types, known as doshas, which provide further insight on the root cause of dental problems and how they can best be treated.
Dental Problems and the Doshas
Some of the most common dental problems and symptoms that we deal with at the Yatan Centre are:
Bleeding gums
Discoloured or stained teeth
Gingivitis (gum disease)
Halitosis (bad breath)
Loose, weak/wobbly teeth
Mouth pain and/or infections
Plaque and bacterial build-up
Sensitive teeth
Receding gums
Toothache
Tooth cavities
Tooth decay
Tooth or gum infections
Based on the Ayurvedic viewpoint, certain doshas are more prone to dental problems than others.
Individuals of the Kapha dosha will generally have stronger teeth and enamel, as the mouth is the seat of the Kapha dosha. Such individuals might, however, be prone to a pH imbalance (resulting in white tongue coating or a yeast overgrowth in the mouth), gum swelling, and hypersalivation. Hormonal and metabolic disorders, which are quite commonplace for Kapha, can also directly affect the mouth and gums.
Those of the Pitta dosha are more prone to developing tooth problems and gum disease. They will generally face symptoms that signal inflammation (often accompanied by a burning sensation), infection or decay. An imbalanced Pitta dosha will almost always signal a digestive condition and this, in turn, may also result in bad breath and other oral-digestive symptoms.
Finally, the Vata dosha is highly prone to dental problems, particularly receding gums, tooth weakness, pain and sensitivity. Vata-related dental problems will usually appear for most seniors and older people, as this dosha increases with age. As Vata directly rules the nervous system, such an individual may suffer from deep nerval pain in the gums, even if they have had their teeth removed.
To have your dosha properly assessed, you will need to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner.
How Can Ayurveda Treat Dental Problems
Ayurveda can help treat dental problems in the following ways:
Gum problems
Gums can be repaired with gum massage oil. This all-natural remedy will strip the gums of any toxic residue that has accumulated, stimulating their self-repair and regrowth. Powders, oils, and further treatments may also be prescribed.
Tooth decay
Tooth cavities, staining, and other conditions of the teeth can be treated with herbal powders you can use to brush your teeth with. Oils for oil pulling may also be prescribed, as well as a dietary plan consisting of foods that will not cause further decay.
Tooth weakness
For teeth that weaken with age, Ayurveda can provide tooth powders, oils, and maintenance tips you can apply to strengthen the enamel, gums, and nerves over time.
Mouth problems
Oral conditions can range from bad breath to ulcers and infections. Depending on the problem, Ayurveda can provide the appropriate all-natural mouthwash. For any pain or infection, it is often advised to simply gargle a rock salt rinse (a full oral hygiene kit will come in handy). Your digestive system may also be in need of treatment, especially if you are dealing with GERD or halitosis.
Tongue problems
A tongue scraper is the best way to remove bacterial coating from the tongue. Further remedies, such as oils and mouthwashes, may be prescribed. If you have a pH imbalance causing a yeast overgrowth in the mouth (evident via white patches and coating on the tongue), you will receive an entirely different treatment to target that specifically.
It is advised you start caring for your teeth and gums as soon as possible. To receive the appropriate prescription, make sure to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
How Does Ayurveda Differ from Western Medicine
Western Medicine is often the first form of healing a person with dental problems will pursue. When conditions such as severe pain, irreversible infections and surgical procedures are concerned, Western Medicine should be your first stop.
However, while Western Medicine can be effective, it may often lack in providing safe, all-natural care and long-term results. Acute and severe conditions can be treated almost instantly (and rather invasively), but what about chronic dental problems that persist? What about oral conditions that are caused by a digestive or other problems? And what about daily dental care that is safe enough to not damage the teeth enamel any further? Only Ayurveda is concerned about all the above.
Ayurvedic treatment is not only 100% safe and natural, but it will also never disturb another function or physical system. For example, you will never be prescribed a mouthwash that will harm your tooth enamel or cause overacidity, thus disrupting your mouth’s pH levels (which can lead to decay and infection).
At our Yatan Centre, you can expect to be treated like a unique individual and system. Once your symptoms are examined and your dosha is identified, you will receive a customised, all-natural, non-invasive dental treatment plan that suits your needs and individual constitution.
Common problems & symptoms
Useful Dental products:
Articles
Discoloured (Yellow & Stained) Teeth : Natural Teeth Whitening
Tooth Decay in children treatment
Oil Pulling – Trend Or Treatment
Gum (Periodontal) Disease and Loose Teeth Treatment
Gingivitis Symptoms & Treatment