Quick Take
A social media post claims that rock salt, alum, cloves, and mustard oil can cure all dental problems. We fact checked this and termed it false.
The Claim
According to a Facebook post, a mixture of powdered rock salt (sendha namak), alum (phitkari), and cloves (laung) mixed with mustard oil (sarson ka tel) can cure all dental problems. The post claims it can treat decayed teeth, toothaches, bleeding gums, pus in the gums, yellow teeth, and pyorrhoea in just 2–3 uses.
Fact Check
Can a homemade mixture of alum, rock salt, cloves and mustard oil cure tooth decay?
No, it cannot. Tooth decay arises due to bacteria producing acids that erode tooth enamel. Some ingredients mentioned in the post might offer temporary relief because they do have mild antiseptic properties. But, they cannot reverse existing decay. A decayed tooth requires professional dental treatment. This can include fillings, crowns, or even extraction, to remove the decay and restore the tooth’s structure and function. Ignoring decay and relying on home remedies can lead to the worsening of the condition which can cause more pain and an increased risk for infection.
Can this remedy treat gum bleeding and pus discharge?
No, this is misleading. Bleeding gums and pus are often signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), which is a bacterial infection. While some ingredients like cloves have antibacterial properties, they are not potent enough to eliminate the bacteria causing a significant gum infection. Effective treatment for gum disease involves professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. And, in more severe cases, scaling and root planing or other periodontal therapies. Relying solely on this home remedy can allow the infection to progress, leading to more severe gum damage, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.
Dr Snigdha, BDS, MDS, from Vananchal Dental College and Hospital, Jharkhand, says that a homemade mix like this cannot treat serious dental issues such as cavities or pus from the gums. “Cavities are permanent damage to the teeth and need proper treatment like fillings. Pus usually means there’s a deeper infection, often something like periodontitis, which needs professional care,” she explains. Herbal rinses might offer some short-term relief, but they won’t fix the underlying problem or stop further damage, she adds.
Dr Pooja Sharma, BDS, MDS, from NIMS University, Jaipur, explains, “Home remedies can sometimes do more harm than good—not because the ingredients are harmful, but because they can give the false impression that professional care isn’t necessary. Dental issues like cavities and gum infections don’t heal on their own; they require proper diagnosis and treatment. Delaying care can turn a small problem into severe pain, swelling, or even tooth loss. It’s always better to consult a dentist early rather than waiting for the situation to worsen.”
Similar to this, another post claims that a paste of alum, rock salt, and mustard oil can treat bleeding gums in 7-10 days. However, this is equally misleading.
Will this mixture cure toothaches at home?
Not really. Some ingredients, like cloves, contain eugenol, which has mild anaesthetic and antiseptic properties that might temporarily ease toothaches. Rock salt might also offer some soothing effects. However, toothaches are often a symptom of underlying dental problems such as decay, infection, or gum disease. So, even though this mixture might provide fleeting relief, it does not solve the root cause of the pain. Plus, the pain will most likely return without proper dental treatment.
Similarly, we’ve also debunked another claim that suggests clove, alum, ajwain, and neem water can cure all oral problems.
Can this rock salt, cloves and alum mixture whiten yellow teeth?
Highly unlikely. Yellowing of teeth can happen due to various factors, including staining from food and drinks, enamel thinning, and poor oral hygiene. Rock salt may have a mild abrasive effect, and might help remove some surface stains. But it is not a substitute for professional teeth whitening treatments or toothpastes that have specific ingredients to break down stains safely. This homemade mixture is unlikely to significantly change the natural colour of teeth.
Can this DIY toothpaste cure pyorrhea (severe gum disease)?
No, it cannot. Pyorrhoea, or advanced periodontitis, is a serious gum infection. It damages the soft tissues and the bone that support the teeth. This condition needs professional treatment from a dentist or periodontist. Management usually includes deep cleaning, medication, and sometimes surgery.
A 2021 review mentions Ayurvedic methods for managing periodontitis. These include certain medicinal herbs and practices like oil pulling. However, it does not mention sendha namak, alum, cloves, or mustard oil, the ingredients promoted in the Facebook post. It’s also important to understand that Ayurveda focuses on personalised care. Treatments are usually based on a person’s unique constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances (Doshas). Ayurvedic experts do not generally recommend one-size-fits-all remedies. A home remedy like the one described is not enough to treat such a severe condition.
Dr Annusuiya Gohil, Ayurvedic expert and MD Scholar at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, explains that while classical Ayurvedic texts do cover dental care in detail, the claims made in viral social media posts are often misleading. “There is a full postgraduate specialisation in Ayurveda that focuses on eye, ear, nose, throat, and dental care. But these remedies cannot be applied in a vague or general way. How herbs are prepared and used makes a big difference,” she says.
Dr Gohil further adds, “It is incorrect to claim that all dental problems, especially serious ones like pyorrhoea, can be treated with a single herbal mix. If someone says the remedy is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts, they must cite the exact reference. That allows trained Ayurvedic professionals to interpret it properly and guide treatment based on individual needs.”
Likewise, there are claims that a home remedy can solve all dental problems. But this is misleading.
Are commercial toothpastes a waste of money?
No, this claim is misleading. Commercial toothpastes are clinically tested and contain ingredients that are scientifically proven to support oral health. Most include fluoride to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities, mild abrasives to remove plaque and surface stains, and detergents to help loosen debris. Some are specially formulated to address sensitivity, tartar build-up, or whitening. While a few products may be overhyped, many are backed by research and approved by dental associations. Replacing them entirely with a homemade mixture like the one suggested could compromise oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day with the right technique and a fluoride-based toothpaste remains the foundation of good dental care.
THIP Media Take
The claim that rock salt, alum, cloves, and mustard oil cure can cure all dental problems is false. The post exaggerates their usefulness and promotes misleading health advice. Relying on such remedies without dental check-ups can delay treatment and worsen oral problems. Fluoride-based toothpaste and regular dental visits remain the safest and most effective way to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
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