Mukha Roga to Modern Dentistry: How Ayurveda and AI Safeguard Our Smile

 A visit to the dentist is inevitable in every human life. No matter how carefully we brush, floss, or eat, our teeth undergo constant wear from food, age, and lifestyle. Ayurveda describes this reality in the context of Mukha Roga—a broad category of disorders affecting the mouth, gums, tongue, and teeth. The classical texts, such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, mention more than 60 varieties of oral conditions, showing the depth of ancient knowledge about dental health.

🌿Ayurveda identifies a range of Danta Roga (tooth diseases). 

Krimidanta resembles modern-day dental caries, 

Dantasharkara refers to tartar buildup,

Dantashula corresponds to toothache, 

Dantapata to loosening of teeth, and 

Dantaharsha to tooth sensitivity.

 Gum-related conditions include :

Sheetada (gingivitis),

Upakusha (periodontitis), and 

Dantaveshta (gum swelling). 

Remedies included herbal tooth powders, chewing twigs of Neem or Khadira, Oil pulling (Gandusha), and dietary regulation to balance the doshas.

🌿Classical Ayurveda also prescribes oral formulations and tablets that help manage Mukha Roga:

• Triphala Guggulu – supports gum health and reduces inflammation.

• Khadiradi Vati – a common tablet for bad breath, gum bleeding, and mouth ulcers.

• Trikatu Churna (sometimes in tablet form) – improves digestion and reduces oral toxins that contribute to dental issues.

• Yashtimadhu (licorice) tablets – soothe oral ulcers and throat irritation.

• Eladi Vati – useful for sore mouth, throat, and ulcers.

🌿These remedies, along with local applications like Irimedadi Taila (oil for oil pulling) and herbal mouth rinses, show how Ayurveda combined systemic and local care for oral hygiene.

Modern dentistry addresses these same challenges with advanced tools and procedures. Cavities may require fillings or Root Canal Therapy (RCT) to preserve a decayed tooth. Misaligned teeth are corrected through orthodontics like braces and aligners. Missing teeth are restored with implants, bridges, or dentures, while cosmetic dentistry focuses on whitening, veneers, and smile correction. Gum surgeries, periodontal therapy, and oral cancer screening have all become routine parts of dental practice.

Artificial Intelligence is now transforming dentistry. AI-driven imaging tools can detect cavities, gum disease, fractures, and even early signs of oral cancer with unmatched accuracy. In RCT procedures, AI-guided imaging helps in mapping root canals more precisely, reducing errors and improving success rates. Predictive algorithms analyze X-rays and CT scans to assist in orthodontic planning, implant placement, and cosmetic corrections. AI-powered virtual consultations are also making dental care more accessible, offering preventive guidance before issues escalate.

From Ayurveda’s holistic management of Mukha Roga through herbal tablets and therapies to modern-day RCTs, implants, and AI-assisted diagnostics, the evolution of oral healthcare reflects humanity’s quest for balance between tradition and innovation. Visiting the dentist may be inevitable, but the journey is now supported by timeless Ayurvedic wisdom and cutting-edge technology, safeguarding not just our teeth but our overall health and confidence.

Stay tuned to Holistic Decode for more