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General Medicine
Question #17214
151 days ago
173

braces - #17214

Caroline

I’ve always been self-conscious about my teeth because they’re slightly crooked, and my bite feels a little off. It’s not something that causes major issues, but I do notice that sometimes my jaw feels tense, and chewing on one side feels uneven. I finally decided to see a dentist, and they told me I might need braces to correct my alignment. I always thought braces were just for cosmetic reasons, but the dentist explained that they can actually help with jaw health, reduce tension, and even prevent future dental problems. The only thing stopping me is that I’ve heard they can be really uncomfortable, especially in the first few months. Some people even say they get headaches, gum irritation, and difficulty eating certain foods. I’m wondering if Ayurveda has any recommendations for people who are about to get braces. Does Ayurveda say anything about strengthening the teeth and gums naturally? Are there specific foods or herbal treatments that can help the body adjust to the changes in the mouth? Also, I know that with braces, there’s a higher risk of gum inflammation and sensitivity. Are there Ayurvedic remedies that can help prevent gum issues while wearing braces? I’ve read about oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil for gum health—would that be safe to do with braces, or is there another method that’s better? If anyone has had braces and used Ayurveda to help with discomfort, what worked best for you? Are there herbs, diet changes, or lifestyle habits that made the process easier? I want to do everything I can to make sure my teeth stay strong and healthy during this process.

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Doctors’ responses

Getting braces isn’t just about aesthetics—it can improve jaw alignment, reduce tension, and prevent future dental issues. However, the initial discomfort, gum irritation, and headaches are real concerns. Ayurveda offers natural ways to strengthen teeth and gums, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s adjustment to braces. Since braces put pressure on the jaw and teeth, ensuring good bone health and circulation is key. Eating calcium-rich foods like sesame seeds, almonds, and leafy greens, along with Ayurvedic herbs like Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis) and Ashwagandha, can support bone strength and healing. To prevent gum inflammation and sensitivity, Ayurveda recommends gentle oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil, which helps keep gums healthy. However, with braces, it’s best to swish gently to avoid dislodging any wires. You can also massage your gums with Triphala powder or a mix of turmeric and honey to reduce swelling. Herbal mouthwashes made from neem, clove, and licorice can fight bacteria and soothe irritated gums. Drinking turmeric or licorice tea can also help reduce mouth discomfort naturally. Since braces can make chewing difficult, Ayurveda suggests eating soft, warm, and easy-to-digest foods like kitchari (a nourishing rice-lentil dish), soups, and mashed root vegetables to avoid excess strain on the jaw. Avoid very hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, as they can irritate the gums and put pressure on shifting teeth. Practicing jaw relaxation techniques and gentle facial massages with warm sesame oil can ease tension and prevent headaches. If discomfort is severe, sipping cumin and fennel tea can aid digestion and reduce inflammation, helping your body adjust more smoothly
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Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
147 days ago
4.83
In Ayurveda, maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums is essential for overall well-being. To support your teeth during orthodontic treatment, you can incorporate herbs like Triphala, which is known for its antibacterial properties and helps maintain oral hygiene. Oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil is indeed beneficial, as it helps reduce inflammation, detoxify the mouth, and strengthen gums, and it is safe to practice even with braces. To prevent gum irritation, consider using a soothing herbal mouthwash made from neem or clove oil, which can help with healing and prevent infection. From a dietary perspective, include calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, sesame seeds, and dairy products to support bone health. Avoiding overly spicy, sour, or sticky foods can help reduce discomfort. Practicing gentle jaw exercises to relieve tension and promote alignment can also be beneficial. Ayurvedic massage of the jaw and temple areas with warm oils, such as sesame or mustard oil, can help alleviate any discomfort caused by the braces.
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It's great that you're proactively seeking ways to support your dental health as you consider braces! Ayurveda offers various approaches to strengthen teeth and gums, maintain comfort, and minimize any potential discomfort during orthodontic treatment. 1. **Dietary Recommendations**: - **Calcium and Magnesium**: Incorporate foods rich in these minerals for strong teeth and bones. Include green leafy vegetables (like spinach), nuts (especially almonds), and seeds (like sesame) in your diet. You can enjoy a daily bowl of khichdi made with lentils and rice or a veggie-laden soup to ensure balanced nutrition. - **Vitamin D**: Essential for calcium absorption; sun exposure is ideal, or you can include foods like fortified dairy, egg yolks, and fatty fish. - **Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods**: These can cause gum irritation and damaged enamel. Limit sweets and soda consumption. 2. **Herbal Remedies**: - **Ginger Tea**: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce tension in your jaw. Brew fresh ginger slices in water, add lemon and honey, and drink it twice daily. - **Turmeric Paste**: Mix turmeric powder with water to create a paste, apply it gently on your gums, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Its anti-inflammatory properties benefit oral health. 3. **Oral Care Practices**: - **Oil Pulling**: You can safely practice oil pulling with coconut oil or sesame oil while wearing braces. This method helps reduce bacteria and improves gum health. Swish the oil around your mouth for 10-15 minutes and then spit it out. - **Saltwater Rinse**: A warm saltwater rinse can soothe any irritation and promote gum health. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth twice daily. 4. **Lifestyle Adjustments**: - **Stress Management**: Since jaw tension can be associated with stress, practices such as yoga, meditation, or gentle stretching can help. Incorporate deep breathing exercises to manage stress levels. - **Soft Foods**: During the initial adjustment period, consume soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups to minimize discomfort while chewing. 5. **Regular Dental Hygiene**: Maintain a rigorous dental hygiene routine with soft-bristle toothbrushes and fluoride toothpaste. Consider electric toothbrushes, as they can be gentler on the gums. Taking these Ayurvedic principles and practices into account can support your dental health and comfort while undergoing treatment with braces. Remember to maintain open communication with your dentist regarding any discomfort you experience.
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