THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
APRIL 9, 2026
While people often
commit to “resetting” their fitness routines through gym memberships, diet
plans, or lifestyle changes, oral care rarely receives the same thoughtful
reassessment. Highlighting this overlooked gap in personal healthcare
priorities, leading public health expert Dr. Sonia Datta, MDS, PhD, Professor
of Public Health Dentistry, has underscored the need to re-evaluate daily oral
hygiene habits that often remain unchanged for decades despite evolving
lifestyles.
According to Dr.
Datta, individuals tend to actively correct lapses in physical fitness, yet
oral health — one of the most prevalent non-communicable conditions globally — continues
to be treated as a routine task performed mechanically rather than consciously
improved. She notes that brushing habits formed during childhood frequently
persist into adulthood without adequate review of technique, duration, or
suitability of oral care products, even as dietary patterns and health conditions
change over time.
The disparity, she
explains, largely stems from the fact that early oral health issues are not
always immediately visible. Problems such as plaque accumulation, enamel
erosion, and initial gum inflammation often develop gradually and painlessly.
This invisibility encourages complacency, leading many individuals to assume
their oral hygiene routine is sufficient. Over time, however, such neglect may
increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity —
even among otherwise health-conscious individuals.
Emphasizing the
importance of preventive care, Dr. Datta points to Ayurveda’s longstanding
contribution to oral hygiene practices. Traditional ingredients such as clove
and shunthi (dry ginger) are known
for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, offering a natural
approach to maintaining gum and dental health. Integrating these time-tested
elements with modern dental science can provide a balanced and effective
solution for everyday oral care.
Products such as
Dabur Red Paste attempt to bridge this gap by combining Ayurvedic knowledge
with contemporary research. The formulation incorporates traditional herbal
ingredients and carries the Indian Dental Association (IDA) Seal of Acceptance,
indicating adherence to recognized dental care standards. Such integrations
reflect the growing preference for solutions that merge traditional wellness
practices with scientifically validated methods.
Experts stress that
rebuilding oral care habits can be as beneficial as adopting a new fitness
routine. Dental associations recommend brushing teeth twice daily using proper
technique, particularly along the gum line where plaque tends to accumulate.
Daily flossing is equally important as it helps clean areas that a toothbrush
cannot reach, reducing the risk of gum disease. Regular dental check-ups
further support early detection of potential problems, enabling timely
preventive care.
Dr. Datta reiterates that oral health should be treated as a fundamental component of overall wellness rather than an afterthought. Consistent and mindful oral hygiene practices, supported by effective and evidence-based ingredients, can help maintain strong teeth and healthy gums over the long term.
In an era where preventive healthcare is gaining increasing importance, experts believe that oral hygiene deserves the same level of attention and periodic reassessment as fitness and nutrition. Making oral care a non-negotiable daily habit can significantly contribute to improved quality of life, reinforcing the idea that overall well-being truly begins with a healthy smile.
