types of teeth

Question

I never really thought much about my teeth until I started having sensitivity issues a few months ago. It started with a weird tingling feeling in my molars whenever I drank something cold, but now even sweet foods cause discomfort. I also noticed that some of my teeth feel different—some are sharp, some flat, and I started wondering if this has something to do with how we chew food.

After looking it up, I found that there are different types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. But what I don’t fully understand is why some people seem to have sharper canines while others don’t. Is it just genetic, or does diet and lifestyle play a role in how our teeth develop over time?

I’ve also been reading about Ayurveda’s perspective on oral health. I saw that Ayurveda links types of teeth to the doshas, where Kapha is associated with strong, well-formed teeth, while Vata can lead to brittle, weak, or sensitive teeth. I do have a lot of Vata tendencies—dry skin, irregular digestion, and now, this new sensitivity in my teeth. Could all of this be connected?

Another thing I’m curious about is whether Ayurveda suggests different care routines for different types of teeth. For example, do molars need different care compared to canines? I’ve heard about herbal tooth powders and oil pulling—do these actually strengthen all types of teeth, or are they more for gum health?

I also have a small cavity forming in one of my molars, and I really want to stop it from getting worse. Are there Ayurvedic ways to heal early-stage cavities naturally? Should I avoid certain foods that might be weakening my enamel? I eat a lot of sour and spicy food—could that be making my sensitivity worse?

If anyone has tried Ayurveda for overall dental health, I’d love to know what actually worked. Should I be switching to herbal tooth powders instead of regular toothpaste? And are there specific dietary changes that help strengthen teeth long-term?

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Tooth sensitivity, especially to cold and sweet foods, often indicates enamel erosion or exposed dentin, which can be linked to Vata imbalance in Ayurveda. Vata-related issues like dryness, irregular digestion, and brittleness can affect teeth, making them more sensitive. Ayurveda recommends oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil, using herbal tooth powders with neem and clove, and avoiding excessive sour, spicy, and processed foods that weaken enamel.

The shape and sharpness of teeth, including pronounced canines or flattened molars, can be influenced by genetics, but diet and chewing habits also play a role. People who consume more raw, fibrous foods naturally maintain stronger, well-formed teeth, while those with processed or overly soft diets may develop weaker enamel and shifting tooth structures over time. Chewing properly and eating nutrient-dense foods like sesame seeds, leafy greens, and dairy can help maintain strong teeth.

For early-stage cavities, Ayurveda suggests herbs like licorice (mulethi) and babool for remineralization, along with calcium-rich foods and avoiding excessive acidic intake. Using herbal tooth powders or fluoride-free toothpaste with natural remineralizing ingredients can help prevent further decay. Oil pulling, a balanced diet, and maintaining oral hygiene can strengthen teeth over time and reduce sensitivity naturally.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, teeth are considered a reflection of the balance of the doshas, with Kapha promoting strong, well-formed teeth and Vata leading to dryness and sensitivity. Since you have Vata tendencies, your teeth may be more prone to sensitivity and weakening. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of balancing Vata, which can be done through hydrating foods and avoiding excess dryness, like eating less spicy, sour, or processed foods. For strengthening teeth, herbal tooth powders with ingredients like neem, clove, and licorice are often recommended, as they help with both cleaning and strengthening the enamel. Oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil can also be beneficial for improving gum health and reducing sensitivity. To address your cavity, chewing on fresh herbs like neem or using Triphala powder in water as a mouthwash may help reduce bacteria and support dental health. Ayurvedic care suggests maintaining a balanced diet with warm, moist, and grounding foods to support your teeth's strength and prevent further issues. You might also want to reduce sour and spicy foods, as they can exacerbate sensitivity.

types of teeth - #17196

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions