Ayurveda’s Guide to Oral Health: A Holistic Approach to Caring for Your Mouth
- Andree Noye
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Adapted from Paavani Ayurveda (5 Mar 2021), updated by Andrée Noye Reading Time: 7 minutes
Ayurveda, India’s traditional healing system, has long recognized the importance of oral care in maintaining overall well-being. Dating back thousands of years, this ancient practice offers insights into preventative dental health, treating common concerns such as plaque buildup, tooth infections, and gum health.
While brushing and flossing are standard in modern oral hygiene, Ayurveda takes a deeper, more holistic approach, integrating self-care practices that not only keep your teeth and gums in top shape but also support digestion and balance in the body.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Oral Health
In Ayurveda, the human body is governed by three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—each influencing different functions.
Understanding these doshic influences helps maintain balance in oral health, ensuring strong teeth, healthy gums, and optimal digestion.
The Connection Between Oral Health & Digestion
Ayurveda teaches that digestion is the foundation of overall health. Poor oral hygiene and imbalanced Kapha dosha can contribute to toxins (ama) in the system, leading to bad breath, plaque buildup, and potential digestive discomfort.
By integrating mindful eating and Ayurvedic oral care rituals, you support not only your mouth but your entire body's vitality.
How to Maintain Balanced Bodhaka Kapha (Saliva)
A healthy bodhaka kapha (saliva) is essential for protecting teeth, maintaining moisture, and supporting digestion. Signs of imbalance include dry mouth, plaque buildup, and gum sensitivity.
To restore balance, Ayurveda recommends:
✅ Reducing sugar and processed foods
✅ Avoiding acidic drinks like coffee and alcohol
✅ Staying hydrated with herbal teas and filtered water
✅ Using natural, alcohol-free mouthwash
✅ Practicing oil pulling each morning
Ayurvedic Rituals for Oral Care
Incorporating dinacharya—daily self-care practices—can elevate your oral hygiene routine beyond basic brushing and flossing.
Tongue Cleaning
Tongue scraping is an Ayurvedic ritual that removes toxins (ama) accumulated overnight. This practice:
✔ Expels harmful bacteria
✔ Freshens breath
✔ Improves digestion
✔ Stimulates the digestive system
Ayurveda recommends copper tongue scrapers for their antibacterial properties, ensuring a deeper cleanse compared to standard toothbrushes.
Oil Pulling for Oral Health
Oil pulling, a centuries-old practice, involves swishing warm sesame or coconut oil in the mouth for 10-20 minutes before spitting it out. This helps:
✔ Remove toxins
✔ Strengthen gums and teeth
✔ Reduce plaque buildup
✔ Support overall oral microbiome health
Elevating Your Self-Care with Ayurveda
Oral care is more than just hygiene—it’s an act of self-care and nourishment. Ayurveda teaches that every small ritual contributes to greater wellness, and by incorporating these ancient practices, you cultivate a healthier mouth, stronger digestion, and enhanced vitality.
Take a moment each day to embrace Ayurveda’s wisdom, and let your smile reflect the harmony within. 🌿✨