A Review on Upakusha with Special Reference to Plaque Gingivitis: Ayurveda Treatment Strategies

Background: Mukha (oral cavity) is considered an important part of Urdhwajatru (region above the clavicle) as it reflects the overall health of the body.Impairment in oral health due to poor diet and hygiene can manifest as both local and systemic disorders.Oral diseases continue to be a major health problem worldwide.Dental caries and periodontal diseases are among the most important oral health problems.Dantamoolagata rogas (periodontal diseases) are caused by Pitta and Rakta dushti, and one of the most common afflictions of Dantamoolagata Rogas is Upakusha (plaque gingivitis), Sheetada (spongy gums), and Paridara (periodontitis).Aims: In this present scientific, evidence-based research article, efforts have been made to emphasize how Ayurveda treatment principles help control the condition -Upakusha (plaque gingivitis).Materials and methods: Prevention of the disease using Ayurveda principles like Dantadhavana (brushing teeth), Jihva Nirlekhana (tongue scraping), and Pratisarana (rubbing a medicinal substance in powder/paste form) plays an important role.Observations: The signs and symptoms of Upakusha are Paaka (inflammation with suppuration), Raktasrava (bleeding), Shotha (swelling), Daha (burning sensation), Manda Vedana (mild pain), and Poothi mukha (halitosis), which can be co-related to those of gingivitis.A huge population of people is suffering from gingivitis because of an unhealthy lifestyle.Gingivitis most frequently develops when oral hygiene is inadequate, allowing dental plaque to accumulate on the teeth and irritate the periodontal tissues.Results: When plaque-induced gingivitis is not addressed promptly, the condition may advance to periodontitis, affecting the deeper supporting tissues around the teeth.If Upakusha is not treated, it may lead to Paridara (periodontitis).Conclusion: Hence, prevention of the disease using Ayurveda principles plays an important role, and the same is the main highlight of this review article.