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| - Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a mixture of Triphala and Himalayan pink salt can cure tooth infection without needing a root canal treatment. We fact checked and found it to be mostly false.
The Claim
A post on Instagram by Dr. Rekha Radhamony claims to treat dental caries or tooth infections without needing root canal treatment. Dr. Radhamony suggests mixing 1 tbsp of Triphala powder with 1 tsp of Himalayan pink salt in 2 glasses of water, boiling it, and reducing it by half. One has to hold it in their mouth for 5-10 minutes and then spit it out. According to the claim, within a couple of days, the tooth infection would heal.
Fact Check
What is Triphala?
Triphala is a blend of three powerful fruits—Amla (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). It is extremely valuable in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits. The blend is famous for keeping the digestion healthy, helping your body detox, and boosting overall vitality.
Amla, also called Indian gooseberry, is the star of Triphala because it’s full of vitamin C and antioxidants. These antioxidants help the body neutralise oxidative stress and protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. In lab experiments, extracts from Amla have the ability to restrict the multiplication of cervical and ovarian cancer cells. Yet, there is no scientific proof indicating that Amla prevents cancer in humans.
So, Triphala not only helps with digestion but also supports the overall cellular health, fights diseases and provides strength.
Recent studies have started looking into Triphala’s effects on oral health, especially its potential to prevent cavities. While these early findings look promising, we need more research to be certain about Triphala’s role in keeping the teeth healthy.
Is Triphala anti-bacterial?
Yes, Triphala possesses antibacterial properties. Research has shown that specific compounds in Triphala, such as tannins and polyphenols found in Amla (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), exhibit antimicrobial activity against various bacterial strains.
These antibacterial properties of Triphala can be beneficial in fighting bacterial infections and supporting overall health. However, it’s important to note that while Triphala may offer some antibacterial effects, it should not replace conventional antibiotics prescribed by doctors for treating bacterial infections.
Can Triphala cure tooth infections?
No, not really, but we have enough evidence which backs the potential use of Triphala in dental care. We would like to emphasise that, Dr Radhamony claims that Triphala can eliminate the need for root canal treatment, if they use Triphala mixture as directed in the video. While Triphala can protect the teeth from developing an infection, it can not eliminate the need for dental procedures. Nevertheless, Triphala has a promising use in the field of dentistry along with dental procedures, given the amount of literature. It can provide a preventive action, but can not offer a treatment, unless used in combination with dental procedures.
Triphala effectively inhibits biofilm formation due to its high tannic acid content. Compared to conventional root canal treatments, Triphala offers added benefits as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, making it a safe alternative without adverse effects like those of NaOCl (Sodium Hypochlorite, widely used in dentistry). Triphala was found to be more effective than 0.5 and 1 per cent NaOCl in reducing bacteria in the root canal. Its formulation made it particularly strong against endodontic bacteria, especially E. faecalis cultures. Triphala showed significant efficacy, nearly matching the effectiveness as NaOCl in removing the smear layer.
In another study, Triphala showed less impact on the strength of root dentin (layer below the enamel) compared to 5% NaOCL and 17% EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid). This indicates that Triphala causes less damage to the root structure compared to EDTA and NaOCl. This is due to the mild chelating action of citric acid found in Triphala fruits.
In our research, we found substantial evidence which suggests that Triphala can be an alternative to NaOCl as a root canal irrigant. We found that it promises antibacterial action as an irrigating solution with lesser harm in case of root canal procedures.
Can Triphala be used in dentistry?
Yes, it does possess antibacterial and anticaries properties. Despite numerous anti-plaque products available, the search for an effective one continues. Some of these have unwanted side effects, prompting the search for alternatives. Traditional remedies, like Terminalia chebula, are now gaining attention for their medicinal properties. T. chebula helps prevent and treat various oral health issues like cavities, gum problems, and mouth sores. It can even inhibit plaque formation on teeth. This helps prevent decay by stopping harmful bacteria from sticking to the teeth.
- Triphala as Root Canal Treatment: Harmful oral bacteria cause root canal infections. Enterococcus faecalis is one such common bacteria. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is used to clean root canals, but it has drawbacks. Triphala has shown strong antibacterial abilities against these infections, suggesting it could be a better option than NaOCl.
- Anti-Collagenase Activity of Triphala: Certain enzymes contribute to gum disease. Triphala inhibits these enzymes, which could help treat gum disease without the side effects of other medications.
- Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Effects of Triphala: Triphala has the potential to kill harmful bacteria and neutralise free radicals. This could help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Using Triphala as a Mouth Rinse: Triphala mouthwash has been used in traditional medicine for oral health. Studies show it can reduce plaque and improve gum health without staining teeth. It has also been found to be as effective as chlorhexidine, a common mouthwash used in dental clinics.
In short, Triphala promises a solution for various dental issues, offering benefits without the adverse effects of some usual treatments. To conclude, Triphala can act as a preventive agent for dental caries, but it can not treat a decayed tooth. It can offer better results when used as a root canal irrigant, as opposed to NaOCl (Sodium Hypochlorite).
What do the dentists say about using Triphala in dentistry?
We approached Dr Snigdha (BDS, MDS Oral Medicine & Diagnostic Radiology) for her expert insights on Triphala in dentistry. She says, “I do acknowledge the potential of Triphala in dentistry. It shows promise in preventing plaque buildup, fighting bacteria, and supporting gum health. However, it’s necessary for patients to understand that while Triphala can contribute to oral health, it does not negate the need for professional dental care. Also, there is a long way to go for Triphala to be widely used in dental clinics, as more research is still needed. Conditions like tooth decay and root canal infections require specialised treatment that Triphala alone cannot provide. Therefore, it’s important to seek professional dental advice whenever you feel there’s a problem with your teeth or gums, and even for usual checkups at regular intervals.”
We also contacted Dr Pooja Sharma (BDS, MDS Orthodontics) for her opinion on triphala in dentistry. She says, “I’ve encountered numerous studies highlighting the promising role of Triphala in dental care. Triphala has shown remarkable abilities in restricting plaque formation, controlling bacterial growth, and promoting gum health. But still, it’s important to emphasise that while Triphala can contribute positively to oral health, it should not replace professional dental treatment. Conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and root canal infections need specialised care that Triphala alone cannot provide. Therefore, maintaining regular dental check-ups is important to assess and treat any issues effectively.
Dr Sharma further explains, “As a dentist, I encourage patients to integrate Triphala into their oral care routines as a complementary measure alongside regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. By doing so, people can enhance their oral health and reduce the risk of dental problems. However, I also stress the importance of seeking professional dental advice and treatment for any dental concerns to ensure complete and effective care.”
We have also debunked several false information about dental health. Can a Nicotine Replacement Therapy guarantee smoking cessation? Can dental anaesthesia vaccinate people without consent? Are silver dental fillings harmful? Can teeth whitening and oral malodour be treated at home?
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