Author(s): Bharti Chaudhry

Abstract: Oral health is an integral part of overall health and well-being. The human oral cavity harbors diverse and unique communities of microbes. Oral diseases are chronic and progressive in nature. Periodontitis and dental caries are the two most prevalent oral health diseases that progress with age and despite advancements, continue to be major public health issues. Aging is accompanied by an altered immune function and dysbiosis in the oral microbiome. The increased resistance of pathogenic bacteria to antibiotics as well as the adverse effects of antibacterial agents and chemotherapeutics used in dentistry, are leading to a resurgence of traditional, herbal products. Many recent experimental studies on animal models, clinical trials and in-vitro studies, corroborate the therapeutic potential of Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Camellia sinensis, Terminalia chebula, Phyllanthus emblica and Aloe vera, as alternatives or adjuncts to non-surgical conventional treatments for improvement of periodontal parameters and dental caries prophylaxis. The review article is intended to increase awareness about the impact of oral diseases and the efficiency of natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory agents in inhibiting the progression of oral diseases.