The use of toothpaste and mouthwash, as well as the traditional practice of using a toothbrush (datoon) in rural areas, are related to diabetes and hypertension. It’s interesting to note that people in rural areas who use traditional toothbrushes (datoon) and practices are less prone to diabetes and hypertension. This difference in oral hygiene practices may be a contributing factor.. Datoon is a practice of using natural plant-based sticks or twigs, such as neem, babul, and other medicinal plants, for oral hygiene, including cleaning teeth and gums. Some studies and traditional knowledge suggest that these natural sticks may have potential health benefits, like fighting germs, maintaining the alkaline levels in your saliva, keeping bacteria at bay, treating swollen gums, preventing plaque, and also giving you whiter teeth

Ayurveda recommends approximately 9 inches long twigs and the thickness of one’s little finger. These herb sticks should be either ‘kashaya’ (astringent), ‘katu (acrid), or ‘tikta’ (bitter) in taste. The method of use is to crush one end, chew it, and eat it slowly(do not spit)

The modern toothpaste and alcohol-containing mouthwash products may contain strong antimicrobial agents like fluorides that can eliminate a significant portion of the oral bacteria, including those that help convert nitrate into nitrite and eventually into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide deficiency can lead to increased blood pressure, as suggested by research studies. Nitric oxide is a naturally produced vasodilator that controls and regulates vascular tone and therefore controls and regulates blood pressure.

Using toothpaste and mouthwash may be linked to an increased risk of pre-diabetes and diabetes. A study published in the British Dental Journal found that those who used mouthwash regularly had a higher risk of developing diabetes Studies show that Using mouthwash at least twice every day destroys “friendly” oral bacteria, which can, in turn, alter blood sugar metabolism and promote diabetes.

The use of traditional toothbrushing practices using materials like babul and neem twigs on oral bacteria and overall health is significant in preventing the growth of Streptococcus mutans, which is known to contribute to tooth decay and cavities.

One should not practice spitting after brushing with traditional materials (datoon and medicated powders like Triphala), which may actually play a significant role in oral hygiene. This practice involves saliva, which contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes that can contribute to oral health.

Along with this traditional practice, you can make oil pulling a routine too, which involves swishing oil in the mouth for oral and systemic health benefits. It may cure diseases like migraines, headaches, diabetes, etc. The pulling technique has been used for many years to prevent tooth decay, and bleeding gums and to strengthen teeth, gums, and jaws. Pulling oil can be sesame oil, coconut oil, or sunflower oil may be infused with mint, clove, cinnamon, and other herbs.

In summary, traditional toothbrushing practices may have health benefits compared to modern toothpaste and mouthwash that are loaded with chemicals. You may replace this chemical-loaded toothpaste with traditional neem and babool twigs, Triphala powder turmeric, and, a mixture of clove cinnamon and rock salt etc.