AYURVEDIC DANTA DHAVANA - A NEED OF TIME: A REVIEW

Abstract

Dhantadhavana is an important procedure for maintaining the oral hygiene. In Ayurveda there is detail explanation about Dantadhavana methods, procedure, action of drugs, benefits etc. due to civilization Ayurveda twigs and tooth powders got replaced by contemporary plastic made toothbrushes and chemical based toothpastes. Toothbrushes are made of plastic; hence it is an alarming sign for soil and air pollution. Contemporary science recommends usage of chemical-based toothpaste with added sweet flavouring agents. Action of toothpaste maybe bactericidal but data from W.H.O over Oro-dental disorders per year gives an idea that action of bactericidal is not up to mark. In Ayurveda rasa Siddhant-katu (pungent taste), tikta (bitter taste), Kashaya (astringent taste) is given much importance for Dantadhavana due to antibacterial, antiseptic action. Current world is shifting towards ayurvedic principles of daily regimens to maintain and promote the health. This paper will discuss over problems due to usage of contemporary toothbrushes and chemical based paste and ayurvedic view of Dantadhavana and solution by Ayurveda to come over the Oro-dental problems.