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| - Last Updated on September 27, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that Sheetkari Pranayama can cure toothache without medications. We did the fact check to term this claim as False.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that Sheetkari Pranayama, a breathing technique, can cure toothache. The post suggests practising this twice a day for fast results without needing medication.
Fact Check
Can Sheetkari Pranayama cure toothache?
No, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that Sheetkari Pranayama can cure toothache. Sheetkari Pranayama is a traditional breathing exercise known to reduce stress and promote relaxation. A 2017 study also indicates that it has the potential to lower systolic blood pressure in hypertensive people. However, toothaches are caused by dental issues such as cavities, infections, or gum disease, none of which can be cured by breathing techniques. While Sheetkari Pranayama may help reduce stress, it does not address the root causes of dental pain. Dental issues require professional care from a dentist to identify and treat the underlying problem.
Dr Snigdha, BDS, MDS, Vananchal Dental College and Hospital, Garhwa, Jharkhand, says, “I understand that people often seek natural or alternative methods to ease tooth pain, like breathing exercises. However, it’s essential to recognise that while techniques like Sheetkari Pranayama can reduce stress, they don’t address the underlying causes of toothache. Tooth pain is often a sign of issues like decay or infection, which need proper dental treatment. Ignoring these problems in favour of alternative remedies can lead to complications. Breathing exercises can help you feel more relaxed, but only professional care can resolve the root of the problem.”
We also reached out to Dr Annusuiya Gohil, MD Scholar at the All India Institute of Ayurveda. She states, “Sheetkari Pranayama is a breathing technique that involves inhaling air through the gaps between your teeth while making a hissing sound. It has several benefits like calming the mind, cooling the body, stimulating the endocrine system, etc. I have not heard or read anywhere in yog sutra or yog related books that it can help in curing tooth related problems. Toothache is usually related to either tooth promblems itself or sometimes it is reflex pain which can only be treated by treating the root cause.”
Can Sheetkari Pranayama improve oral health?
Not directly. There is no evidence to suggest that Sheetkari Pranayama improves oral health. Although Sheetkari Pranayama is beneficial for mental relaxation, no scientific study supports its use for dental health or preventing tooth decay, infections, or gum diseases. Maintaining oral health requires regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care.
A 2023 study noted that pranayama could help reduce stress-related conditions such as bruxism (teeth grinding) and burning mouth syndrome. However, it did not suggest that pranayama could “cure” tooth pain or other dental issues. Therefore, it is important to rely on proven dental hygiene practices rather than alternative methods like pranayama for oral health.
Does Sheetkari Pranayama relieve stress-related tooth pain?
Maybe, but it won’t treat the underlying dental problem. Stress-related habits, like teeth grinding (bruxism), can lead to tooth pain. In these cases, breathing exercises such as Sheetkari Pranayama may help reduce stress and, by extension, the severity of teeth grinding. However, this does not address the root cause of the dental pain itself.
To manage tooth pain caused by stress, a combination of dental treatments (such as using a mouth guard) and stress reduction techniques is more effective. Sheetkari Pranayama can be part of a stress management routine, but dental care is still necessary to prevent further damage to your teeth. Taking care of your dental health is extremely important, as it affects not only your mouth but your overall health. There have been several claims, like avocado seeds curing toothaches, but these remain inaccurate.
Should you see a dentist for a toothache?
Yes, always. Toothache needs professional care to identify and treat the cause. Toothaches can result from cavities, gum infections, or other serious dental problems. These issues require a dentist’s evaluation and treatment. Ignoring a toothache can worsen the condition, potentially leading to infections or abscesses. While Sheetkari Pranayama can help reduce stress, it will not cure a dental issue.
The best way to treat tooth pain is to consult a dentist who can offer the right diagnosis and treatment. Do not fall for home remedies like potash, alum, salt and pepper for curing tooth pain. Home remedies or breathing exercises should not replace medical intervention in dental health matters.
Dr Pooja Sharma, BDS, MDS, NIMS University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, states, “I always advise anyone experiencing a toothache to seek professional help as soon as possible. Tooth pain is often a sign of deeper issues, such as decay, infections, or gum problems, that require proper treatment. Delaying a visit to the dentist could lead to more severe complications, like abscesses or tooth loss. While home remedies may provide temporary relief, only a dentist can diagnose and treat the actual cause, ensuring long-term oral health.”
THIP Media Take
Sheetkari Pranayama is a beneficial breathing exercise that promotes relaxation and stress reduction, but it cannot cure toothache. Dental pain requires professional care, and ignoring it can lead to more serious issues. For any toothache, visiting a dentist is essential to identify the cause and get appropriate treatment.
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