Miswak, Daatun supportive, should not replace modern brushing: Prof M Salim Khan
Srinagar, Jul 16: Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once every day remain the most effective methods for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, while traditional practices such as Miswak and Daatun can serve as useful supplements rather than substitutes.
An oral hygiene guide prepared by Professor Mohammad Salim Khan of the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) aims at promoting awareness about oral health, highlights that good oral hygiene plays a crucial role in preventing dental cavities, gum disease, bad breath and several other oral health problems. It also stresses that oral health is closely linked to overall physical well-being.
According to the guide, dental plaque is the leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease, and regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque while strengthening tooth enamel. Adults are advised to brush at least twice daily—preferably after breakfast and before going to bed—with the night-time brushing described as the most important.
“People at a higher risk of dental caries may brush gently after lunch as well. However, brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks should be avoided. Waiting for 30 to 60 minutes helps protect tooth enamel from erosion,” the guide states.
It recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle circular strokes for at least two minutes, ensuring that the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of all teeth are cleaned thoroughly. Brushing too aggressively or using excessive force, it cautions, may damage enamel, cause gum recession and increase tooth sensitivity.
The guide also acknowledges the benefits of miswak (Salvadora persica), describing it as a traditional oral hygiene aid with natural antibacterial properties that can help reduce plaque, improve gum health and freshen breath. It notes that miswak contains naturally occurring fluoride, silica, calcium, vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.
However, Professor Khan points out that miswak should be used correctly and hygienically, as improper use may fail to clean all tooth surfaces, particularly the spaces between teeth, and excessive rubbing may injure the gums.
Similarly, traditional daatun made from neem, babool or other suitable plants can assist in mechanical cleaning of teeth and may possess antibacterial properties. Nevertheless, the guide emphasizes that these traditional methods cannot replace fluoride toothpaste for effective cavity prevention.
The advisory identifies toothbrushes used with fluoride toothpaste as the “gold standard” for oral hygiene, while electric toothbrushes are also rated highly effective. Miswak and daatun are described as valuable adjuncts that may enhance gum health and breath freshness when used alongside modern oral hygiene practices.
The guide strongly recommends daily dental flossing, particularly before bedtime, as toothbrushes cannot effectively clean the spaces between teeth where plaque and food particles accumulate. Flossing significantly reduces the risk of cavities between teeth, gum disease and bad breath. Interdental brushes and water flossers are suggested as useful alternatives, especially for individuals with braces or dental implants.
Professor Khan also advises replacing toothbrushes every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become worn. Toothbrushes and miswak sticks should never be shared, while toothbrushes should be rinsed thoroughly and allowed to air-dry in an upright position. Daily tongue cleaning and routine dental check-ups every six to twelve months are also recommended.
The guide urges people with diabetes, smokers, pregnant women and individuals wearing braces or dental implants to pay extra attention to oral hygiene because of their increased susceptibility to oral diseases.
It further advises adults to choose toothpaste containing 1,000 to 1,500 ppm fluoride with low abrasiveness. Children under three years should use only a rice grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste, while children aged three to six years should use a pea-sized amount under adult supervision. Individuals with sensitive teeth or gum disease are encouraged to select toothpastes formulated specifically for their condition.
Summing up the recommendations, Professor Mohammad Salim Khan said that scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the combined use of fluoride toothpaste, proper brushing technique and daily flossing for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
“Miswak and properly selected daatun remain valuable traditional practices that can improve gum health and breath freshness, but for most people they should complement—not replace—modern toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste,” he said. (KNO)
