What Are the Pros and Cons of Dentures, and Can Ayurveda Help Maintain Oral Health?

Question

I recently had a dental checkup, and my dentist suggested that I might need dentures in the near future due to severe tooth decay and gum recession. This has been really hard for me to process because I always assumed dentures were for much older people. Now I’m left wondering—what is it really like to live with dentures?

I want to understand the pros and cons before making a decision. Do dentures feel natural, or do they make it difficult to speak and eat? How long does it take to get used to them? Also, do they require special care, or can they be treated like natural teeth? I read that they can cause discomfort in the beginning—how bad is it, and does it get better over time?

At the same time, I’ve been looking into Ayurveda and wondering if there’s a way to prevent further tooth loss naturally. Are there Ayurvedic treatments that can strengthen gums and slow down decay? I found that oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil is supposed to help—has anyone tried it? Does it really make a difference in maintaining oral health?

If anyone has dentures, I’d love to hear how they’ve adjusted to them. Was it a big change? Did it improve your confidence? And if you’ve used Ayurvedic remedies to maintain dental health, what has worked best for you?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Dear friend,

Receiving the news that you may need dentures can be an emotional experience, but remember—this is a new chapter, not an end to your natural smile. Dentures can restore function and confidence, allowing you to eat and speak comfortably again. However, adjustment takes time. In the beginning, they may feel bulky, and you might experience mild discomfort or slight difficulty in speech and chewing. But with patience, your mouth adapts, and they start feeling more natural. Proper fit and regular adjustments are key to avoiding soreness. Dentures require special care—soaking overnight, gentle cleaning, and avoiding harsh chemicals—to maintain their longevity and prevent infections. Over time, many people find they regain their confidence and quality of life with well-fitted dentures.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, oral health reflects overall body balance, particularly Kapha and Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue). Tooth decay and gum recession often indicate weakened Agni (digestive fire), excess Ama (toxins), and Vata imbalance, leading to dryness and tissue degeneration. Ayurveda recommends oil pulling (Gandusha) with sesame or coconut oil, which helps detoxify the mouth, strengthen gums, and reduce bacterial buildup. Triphala decoction or Neem and Babool twigs can be used as a natural mouth rinse to prevent further deterioration. Massaging gums with a mixture of turmeric and black pepper powder can improve circulation and prevent recession. Strengthening bones and teeth from within is also crucial—Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Hadjod help nourish Asthi Dhatu and slow down tooth loss.

Diet plays a huge role in dental health. Avoid excess sugar, processed foods, and acidic drinks, which weaken enamel and contribute to decay. Instead, favor calcium-rich foods like sesame seeds, leafy greens, and almonds. Warm herbal teas with licorice and clove can support gum health. If you’re transitioning to dentures, start with soft, nutrient-dense foods and gradually reintroduce firmer textures as you adjust. Most importantly, embrace this change with a positive mindset—you are not losing something, but gaining a new way to smile, eat, and live fully. Wishing you strength, health, and confidence on this journey!

What Are the Pros and Cons of Dentures, and Can Ayurveda Help Maintain Oral Health? - #15625

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