Oral health means more than just 'good teeth' - it is integral to general health, essential for our well-being, and is a determinant of quality of life. It allows us to speak, smile, kiss, touch, taste, chew, swallow and cry. If oral health is not maintained it may lead to significant time lost from school, work and other important activities. There is a strong relationship between oral health and general health. Good dental or oral care is important to maintaining healthy teeth, gums and tongue.

Two most important oral diseases are dental caries and periodontal (gum) disease. Other Oral problems, including bad breath, dry mouth, canker or cold sores, TMD, tooth decay, or thrush are all treatable with proper diagnosis and care.

Ayurveda which is an ancient science based on herbal therapies believes that teeth problems can be treated by balancing the three doshas of a human body - the Vatta, Pitta and Kapha. Kapha dosha is the root of dental problems so we should take care to well balance it. A well known herb in Ayurveda to reduce cavity and plaque is Amla or the Indian goose berry. It has the ability to rebuild the oral health as it supports the healing and development of the connective tissues. Apart from this, Bilberry and Hawthorn berries can stabilize collagen, and strengthen the gum tissue. In Ayurveda, teeth are considered to be a part of Asthi dhatu or bone tissues. Herbs taken internally to strengthen bone, like the skeleton and the joints, are good for long-term health of the teeth. For example, yellow dock root, alfalfa leaf, nettle leaf, cinnamon bark and turmeric root.

Problems with our teeth are often related to a deficiency of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Hence, most of the solutions revolve around replenishing the content of these minerals in our body. Additionally, as a general rule, one should refrain from the consumption of sweeteners, soft drinks and carbohydrate rich food.

Ayurvedic oral hygiene tips:

• To prevent cavities, eat two pinches of ground cardamom with oatmeal. Cardamom is aromatic, stimulating, and refreshing. It also kindles digestive fire, sharpens the mind, and freshens the breath.
• Use a tongue scraper to remove ama (toxins) and dead bacteria, improve the flavor of your food, reduce bad breath, and clear your mind.
• Chew a handful of mineral-rich white sesame seeds (roasted or toasted) every morning before breakfast. Then brush your teeth with plain water so the residue of the sesame seeds can rub against your teeth, polishing and cleaning them. Problems with your teeth are often related to a deficiency of calcium, magnesium, and zinc. To compensate and to prevent future problems
• Chew on licorice root to cleanse the mouth, promote salivation, halt tooth decay and increase secretions in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Treat your toothbrush like your password. Don't let anybody else use it, and get a new one every six months!

Sri Sri Ayurveda Products for dental health include Sudanta toothpaste and tooth drops.