In recent times, oral diseases have gained an importance and are considered as a major health problem worldwide. Oral cancer, dental caries, and periodontal diseases are among the most important global oral health problems. Although new treatments and technologies for dealing with them are plentiful, nonetheless more and more patients are now looking for simpler, gentler therapies for improving the quality of life and avoiding iatrogenic problems. Traditional medical systems are easily accessible, cheaper and relatively safer than other conventional medicines. The time tested herbal formulations indicated in Unani material medica have been proven effective and safe. The exploration and identification of various botanicals used in traditional and complementary medicine, may lead to development of novel preventive or therapeutic strategies for oral health. The present scientific evidence based review is focused on possible role of Unani system of medicines in the management of various orofacial disorders.
Keywords: Complementary and alternative medicine; Holistic dentistry; Oral healthcare; Orofacial diseases; Unani medicine.