Srinagar, Jul 12: Stressing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, health experts have recommended a combination of modern dental care practices and scientifically supported traditional methods such as miswak and daatun to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.
According to an educational guide prepared by Prof. S. Mohammad Salim Khan, Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing and proper oral hygiene habits remain the most effective way to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
The guide describes tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste as the “gold standard” for oral care. It states that brushing effectively removes dental plaque—the primary cause of cavities and gum disease—helps prevent gingivitis and periodontitis, reduces bad breath and strengthens tooth enamel through fluoride.
Khan said adults are advised to brush twice daily for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush, with brushing before bedtime considered the most important.
The guide cautions against over-brushing or using excessive force, which can damage enamel and lead to gum recession and tooth sensitivity. People are also advised to wait 30 to 60 minutes after consuming acidic foods or drinks before brushing to prevent enamel erosion.
The guide also highlights the benefits of miswak (Salvadora persica), describing it as a useful traditional oral hygiene tool with natural antibacterial properties.
“Miswak can help reduce plaque, improve gum health and freshen breath. It contains natural compounds such as fluoride, silica, tannins, sulphur compounds, calcium and vitamin C.”
The expert recommended using fresh, clean sticks, replacing them every one to two weeks and storing them in hygienic conditions.
Similarly, daatun made from neem, babool (acacia), kikar or mango twigs is recognised as an inexpensive and biodegradable alternative that provides mechanical cleaning of teeth and may possess antibacterial properties.
However, the guide notes that daatun cannot replace fluoride toothpaste for cavity prevention and warns against using unknown plant species, chemically treated branches or mouldy sticks.
It has stressed the importance of daily dental flossing, which helps clean areas between teeth that toothbrushes cannot reach.
“Flossing reduces plaque accumulation, prevents cavities between teeth and lowers the risk of gum disease. Initial bleeding during flossing may occur if gums are inflamed, but proper technique can minimize injury.” Khan said.
Choosing the right toothpaste is equally important, the guide says. It added that adults should use toothpaste containing 1,000–1,500 parts per million (ppm) fluoride and low-abrasive, ADA-approved formulations where available. For children, only a smear or pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste should be used depending on age, with parental supervision to prevent swallowing.
