Many of us forgo the much-recommended routine dental check-ups. The results of which are the sudden onsets of a toothache, tooth decay, and gum diseases. Not to mention the pain and discomfort these problems bring along.

Getting some of these problems treated, further, burn a hole in the pocket. According to WHO, in some countries, oral diseases are the fourth most expensive diseases to treat. If left untreated, these problems can affect general health as well. For instance, chronic gum disease can make diabetes difficult to control. Excessive bacteria in teeth may cause inflammation in the body.

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However, the effects of poor oral hygiene and health can be prevented by following a few Ayurvedic daily practices. These practices serve as preventive and curative measures for all kinds of oral health problems. They also have far-reaching benefits like improved digestion and an enhanced sense of taste.

5 Dental Care Tips to follow:

Here is a set of daily practices that you can follow for great oral hygiene:

Neem possesses anti-microbial properties. Chewing it releases its anti-bacterial agents which mix with saliva. This further kills the harmful microbes in the mouth and prevents the accumulation of bacteria on the teeth.

How to do it?

Choose a twig which is as thick as your little finger. Peel its skin. Chew at one corner to make it like a brush and spit the saliva in the basin in short intervals of time. Brush it all across the gums and teeth. After you’re done, spit the twig fibers stuck on the teeth.

Herbal tooth and gum rub

A herbal tooth and gum rub involves rubbing of some selected herbs and spices. Some of these spices act as excellent enamel cleaners. They prevent and cure all kinds of teeth disorders.

How to do it?

Garlic, rock salt, guava and mango leaves are used for cleaning the enamel. Either of these can be ground and rubbed on the teeth. You can also use a mixture of oil and salt to rub your teeth and gums. The practice strengthens the gums.

Oil Pulling

Swishing oil in the mouth is called oil pulling. The practice helps in the removal of microbes from the gums and teeth. It helps in alleviating mouth ulcers. It also exercises the muscles of the mouth, thereby strengthening and toning them.

How to do it?

Use sesame or coconut oil. Swish it in the mouth for 15-20 minutes and spit.

Tongue cleaning

Bacteria and toxins accumulate on the tongue, which further leads to bad breath. Cleaning the tongue removes the toxins and promotes fresh breath, enhances taste and digestive and oral health.

How to do it?

Use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue.

Herbal mouth rinse

A decoction of Triphala or Yashtimadhu serves as an excellent mouth rinser. The practice in addition to maintaining oral hygiene helps in alleviating mouth ulcers.

How to do it?

Boil Triphala or Yashtimadhu in water till the water reduces to half the amount. Allow it to cool. Rinse when it is lukewarm.

(Author is Dr Sharika Menon, Senior Ayurveda expert with The Art of Living)