“SHALAKYA APPROACHES TO DANTA ROGA (DENTAL DISORDERS): AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW”
Introduction: Dental disorders (Danta Roga) are among the most prevalent global health concerns, affecting billions worldwide. Ayurveda, particularly through the Shalakya Tantra branch, provides an elaborate understanding of oral and dental diseases and their management. Unlike modern dentistry, which emphasizes mechanical and pharmacological approaches, Ayurveda offers holistic interventions that combine preventive, promotive, and therapeutic strategies. Methods: A structured literature review was conducted using Ayurvedic classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Bhavaprakasha), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and AYUSH Research Portal. Keywords included “Shalakya Tantra,” “Danta Roga,” “Ayurvedic dentistry,” and “Ayurveda and dental health.” Studies published between 2000–2025, including clinical trials, pharmacological studies, and systematic reviews, were included. Exclusion criteria involved anecdotal reports, non-peer-reviewed sources, and studies unrelated to oral and dental disorders. Results: Shalakya Tantra describes Danta Roga as arising due to vitiation of doshas affecting teeth and surrounding structures. Classical texts mention various conditions such as Krimidanta (dental caries), Dantaharsha (dentin hypersensitivity), Dantashoola (toothache), and Dantaveshtaka (gingival disorders). Preventive regimens like Dantadhavana (herbal tooth brushing), Gandusha (oil pulling), and Pratisarana (herbal powder massage) are emphasized. Herbal formulations such as Irimedadi Taila, Triphala, Yashtimadhu, and Neem have demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Clinical studies confirm the efficacy of oil pulling and herbal dentifrices in reducing plaque, gingivitis, and halitosis. Discussion: Shalakya Tantra provides comprehensive preventive and curative approaches for Danta Roga. While modern evidence supports many Ayurvedic interventions, further standardization and large-scale clinical validation are required for global integration.
KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Danta Roga, dental health, Shalakya Tantra, Triphala