Public Health Strategies for the Siddha System of Medicine in Dentistry

Abstract

The Siddha system of medicine, a traditional Indian healing practice with roots dating back thousands of years, has provided unique insights into preventive and therapeutic strategies for a wide range of health conditions, including oral diseases. In the current scenario of rising oral health disparities and the need for integrative, community-based care, Siddha offers potential tools that are natural, cost-effective, and culturally relevant. This paper explores how Siddha-based interventions—such as herbal twigs for brushing, oil pulling, and polyherbal mouthwashes—can be effectively utilized within public dental health programs. Through a critical review of classical texts, modern studies, and public health initiatives, the paper presents evidence for Siddha’s role in managing common dental ailments such as caries, gingivitis, and oral infections. It further evaluates the integration of Siddha practices into policy frameworks, school health programs, and rural health missions. Challenges such as lack of standardized formulations, insufficient clinical evidence, and policy inertia are also addressed. The study calls for interdisciplinary collaboration between Siddha practitioners and dental professionals, public education, and government policy support to mainstream Siddha into national oral health strategies.