INTEGRATIVE DENTISTRY –WHAT, WHEN AND HOW

The Indian medical system and ministry of AYUSH recognizes Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) as CAM (Complementary and alternative medicine) and also promote organizations/institutions that practice AYUSH health services and research. Various oral pathologies have been explained in Ayurveda with treatment. Yoga is a mind-body medicine, considered to be originated from India. Similarly other forms of CAM like siddha, Unani, homeopathy, naturopathy, acupressure/acupuncture, Reiki, pranic healing etc., have preventive and curative effect for oral diseases and can be used as an adjunct in general dentistry. This is a short summary of complementary and alternative medicines which can be integrated with dentistry.