If you are not getting good sleep, you may also need to get your teeth checked. This may sound surprising, but sleep and dental health are closely connected.

Many people experience worn-out or broken teeth even though they take proper care of them and brush regularly. The reason behind this could be poor sleep. People who do not sleep well are more likely to grind their teeth.

In medical terms, this condition is called Bruxism. It means grinding or clenching teeth during sleep. When we sleep, our body rests but the brain remains active. Sometimes, the brain briefly wakes up—this is known as “micro-arousals.” During these moments, the jaw muscles become active, leading to a condition called sleep bruxism.

As a result, people may grind their teeth, feel tension in the jaw, and experience disturbed sleep. In the morning, symptoms may include jaw pain, sensitive teeth, headaches, and tiredness even after a full night’s sleep. These are not just sleep issues—they can also indicate dental and jaw problems.

In many cases, Obstructive Sleep Apnea can also be responsible. In this condition, breathing temporarily stops during sleep due to low oxygen levels. The body reacts by moving the jaw to open the airway, which increases teeth grinding and further disrupts sleep.

Stress is another common cause. Anxiety, anger, and suppressed emotions can affect jaw muscles. When the mind is not calm, the body often shows its effects at night.

If you are not sleeping well, do not rely only on sleeping pills. It is important to visit a dentist and get your teeth and jaw checked. If bruxism is detected early, both your teeth and sleep quality can improve.

Treatment options may include special devices like sleep appliances or dental guards. These help protect teeth and improve sleep.

Sometimes, the body gives small warning signs—the question is whether we notice them. If you are struggling with sleep, don’t forget to check your teeth.

Homeopathy has been a subject of debate for many years. People often question whether this system of treatment truly works and whether it has any real scientific basis. To understand this, it’s important to look at what scientific studies say.

Several studies conducted around the world have found that the effects of homeopathy, in many cases, are more than just psychological and show physical improvements as well. In some research, these results were statistically significant. Positive outcomes were especially seen in treatments that were tailored to individual patients.

So far, more than 300 clinical trials have been conducted on homeopathy across over 100 different diseases. Many of these studies followed modern scientific methods, such as randomized and double-blind trials, which are considered reliable in medical research.

However, there is a key difference between homeopathy and conventional medicine (allopathy). Allopathy generally treats patients based on the symptoms of a disease, often giving similar medicines to patients with similar conditions. In contrast, homeopathy treats each patient as a unique individual. Medicines are prescribed based on a person’s specific physical and emotional symptoms, meaning two patients with the same illness may receive different treatments.

For example, consider a group of patients with asthma who are similar in age, weight, and symptoms. In allopathy, they would likely receive similar medication because their symptoms are the same. But in homeopathy, each patient would be assessed individually, and different medicines might be given based on subtle differences between them.

In conclusion, both allopathy and homeopathy are different systems with their own strengths and limitations. The debate between them has continued for years and is likely to go on. Ultimately, what matters most is the patient’s outcome. Where homeopathy is effective, it can be used, and where allopathy works better, it should be preferred.

In a country like India, millions of people use homeopathy, suggesting that many find it beneficial. Today, an integrative approach is becoming more common worldwide—using the treatment method that works best for a particular condition.

Cancer vaccines are a form of treatment that train the body’s immune system to identify and destroy cancer cells. mRNA vaccine technology sends a message (mRNA) into the body, which helps it produce proteins and prepares it to fight diseases. This technology proved successful during COVID-19 and is now being explored for cancer treatment.

In simple terms, just as a blueprint is created before building a house, our body has DNA, which acts as that blueprint. The information from this blueprint is delivered through a messenger called RNA. Based on this message, the body produces new cells. If we introduce a specific message into this system, the body starts working accordingly. In cancer, certain cells go out of control. mRNA technology helps the immune system recognize and fight these cells again, making it highly promising.

Why Can It Be Revolutionary?

mRNA vaccines can offer personalized treatment tailored to each patient. They directly prepare the body to fight cancer cells. In the future, they may even help prevent cancer before it develops. That is why this technology is considered a game-changer in medical science.

Why Does Misinformation Spread?

Despite its promise, misinformation about mRNA vaccines is spreading rapidly, creating fear and confusion among people.

New Subject, Old Fear

People naturally fear new medical technologies.

Role of Social Media

Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube enable rapid spread of incomplete or misleading information.

Complexity of Science

Scientific concepts like mRNA are difficult to understand, making simplified misinformation seem believable.

Trust Deficit

Distrust in governments and pharmaceutical companies fuels doubts.

Profit-Driven Narratives

Some misinformation is spread intentionally for views, influence, or financial gain.

Cultural Beliefs

People often rely on word-of-mouth rather than verified sources.

Speed vs Science

Science takes time to validate facts, while misinformation spreads instantly.

Misinformation arises from fear, lack of knowledge, and rapid communication. The solution lies in spreading accurate and simple scientific information.

My advice to readers:

 Verify if the source is an expert

 Check for hidden motives

 Ensure the information serves public interest

A unique world record has been set in India. A 26-year-old woman, Kalpana Balan, has a total of 38 teeth in her mouth—six more than the average person. Due to this rare condition, her name has been recorded in the Guinness World Records. This raises an important question: if someone has extra teeth, should they be removed or left as they are?

Typically, an adult has 32 teeth. However, Kalpana Balan has 4 extra teeth in the lower jaw and 2 in the upper jaw. These extra teeth began appearing gradually during her teenage years. While she does not experience significant pain, food often gets stuck between her teeth while eating.

Why do extra teeth occur?

This condition is known as Hyperdontia or supernumerary teeth, where more teeth develop than usual. It is observed in about 3–4% of the global population.

Causes include:

 Overdevelopment of tooth buds
 Genetic factors
 Splitting of tooth buds into two

Should extra teeth be removed or not?

The decision depends on several factors. Extra teeth may be retained if they:

 Do not cause pain
 Do not interfere with chewing
 Do not disturb the alignment of other teeth
 Do not increase the risk of infection or decay

However, regular dental check-ups are essential.

When is removal necessary?

Dentists usually recommend removal if:

 Food frequently gets stuck
 Teeth alignment is affected
 There is difficulty in chewing
 Risk of infection or decay increases

In many cases, extra teeth can be removed easily through minor surgery.

Having extra teeth is rare, but not all cases require removal. If they do not cause problems, they can be monitored under medical supervision.

As dental care continues to become increasingly expensive across the world, India is emerging as a major hub for dental tourism. Not only Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) but also thousands of international patients from the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa travel to India every year for dental treatment.

According to recent market research, India’s dental tourism industry is expected to grow rapidly over the next decade. In 2024, the Indian dental tourism market was valued at approximately $1.33 billion (around ₹11,000 crore). By 2033, the market is projected to reach nearly $7.16 billion (about ₹59,000 crore). Experts estimate that the sector may grow at a compound annual growth rate of around 20.7% between 2025 and 2033.

India offers modern dental clinics, digital scanning technology, internationally certified implant systems, and highly experienced dentists. These factors, combined with significantly lower treatment costs, make India an attractive destination for dental care.

Cost Comparison

Dental Implants

In the United States or Europe, a single dental implant typically costs between ₹2.5 lakh and ₹5 lakh. In India, the same procedure usually costs between ₹30,000 and ₹55,000, resulting in massive savings for patients.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment in the US or UK generally costs between ₹80,000 and ₹1.2 lakh. In India, the same procedure can be completed for approximately ₹8,000 to ₹12,000.

Dental Crowns

Porcelain or ceramic crowns in Western countries can cost between ₹1 lakh and ₹1.5 lakh. In India, the same treatment usually costs between ₹10,000 and ₹25,000.

Smile Makeover

A smile makeover in the United States can cost between ₹8 lakh and ₹20 lakh. In India, similar cosmetic dental procedures may cost between ₹1.2 lakh and ₹3.5 lakh.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening in Western countries can cost between ₹50,000 and ₹80,000, while in India the same treatment can be performed for around ₹8,000 to ₹12,000.

India Emerging as a Hub for TMJ and TMD Treatment

In addition to general dentistry, India is also becoming a leading global destination for treating Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders and TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders). These conditions can cause jaw pain, headaches, difficulty opening the mouth, and chronic facial discomfort.

Experts say that TMJ treatment in India costs 60% to 80% less compared to the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. For example, splint therapy in India can cost between ₹5,000 and ₹25,000, while minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy may cost between ₹80,000 and ₹1.5 lakh. In severe cases, total joint replacement surgery may cost between ₹4 lakh and ₹8 lakh.

Many advanced clinics in India use modern diagnostic technologies such as CBCT 3D imaging, T-Scan digital bite analysis, and electromyography, which allow precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

Why Foreign Patients Prefer India

Lower treatment costs in India do not mean lower quality. Many Indian dentists have international training, and many clinics use globally recognized equipment and materials. Additionally, waiting times for dental procedures in Western countries can extend for months, while in India treatment can often be completed within days.

Major Dental Tourism Cities

Cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai have become major centers for dental tourism. In Gujarat, cities like Ahmedabad and Surat are also rapidly emerging as important destinations for international dental patients.

Experts believe that India is likely to become one of the most significant global hubs for dental tourism in the coming years.

Cancer cases in India have been rising at a concerning pace in recent years. According to information presented in Parliament, since 2021 the country has been witnessing an average annual increase of around 28,000 new cancer cases and nearly 15,000 additional deaths each year. These numbers highlight a major public health challenge, although the central government and health authorities are taking several steps to address the growing burden of cancer.

The rise in cancer cases in India is attributed to several factors. The Ministry of Health has stated that increasing life expectancy, a growing elderly population, improved diagnostic technologies, and greater health awareness are contributing to higher detection rates. In many cases, cancers that earlier went undiagnosed are now being detected in time.

Government data indicates that India recorded around 1.35 million cancer cases in 2019, which increased to more than 1.53 million by 2024. Similarly, cancer-related deaths have also been rising steadily. In 2023, an estimated 820,000 deaths in India were attributed to cancer.

To tackle this growing challenge, the Government of India has launched several health initiatives and programs. One of the key initiatives is the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS). The main objective of this program is to promote prevention, early detection, treatment, and awareness regarding non-communicable diseases including cancer.

Under this program, more than 700 district-level NCD clinics, around 268 day-care centers, and thousands of special clinics at community health centers have been established across the country. These facilities provide screening, counselling, and treatment guidance for cancer and other diseases.

To ensure early detection of cancer, the government has also launched nationwide screening programs. Special focus is given to the detection of breast cancer, cervical cancer, and oral cancer, particularly among women. Screening activities are conducted at both rural and urban levels under the National Health Mission to ensure wider access to healthcare services.

In addition, the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) provides free or low-cost treatment for economically weaker sections. Through this scheme, millions of patients have been able to receive expensive hospital treatments that would otherwise be unaffordable.

The government is also expanding advanced cancer treatment infrastructure across the country. Several government medical colleges and super-speciality hospitals are being equipped with facilities such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and other modern treatment options.

A noticeable increase has been observed particularly in cancers affecting women, including breast cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer. In response, special screening and awareness programs targeting women have been introduced.

Research and data collection also play a crucial role in combating cancer. The Government of India, through the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), runs the National Cancer Registry Programme, which collects nationwide data on cancer cases. This information helps policymakers design better health strategies and plan medical infrastructure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a nationwide HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination campaign from Ajmer on February 28. The primary objective of this initiative is to reduce cervical cancer among women.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in India, and nearly 90% of cases are caused by HPV infection.

This vaccine is effective not only against cervical cancer but also against:

 Anal cancer
 Penile cancer
 Vaginal cancer
 Vulvar cancer
 Throat cancer

HPV is a commonly transmitted virus that spreads mainly through physical contact.

Key Highlights of the Campaign

Under this national campaign:

Special focus will be on 14-year-old girls
A single dose of the HPV vaccine will be administered
The target is to vaccinate approximately 11.5 million girls every year

Vaccination during adolescence provides stronger and long-lasting protection.

Which Vaccine Will Be Used?

Currently, the campaign will use the Gardasil vaccine.

India’s indigenously developed Cervavac by Serum Institute is awaiting approval from World Health Organization and is therefore not being used at present.

In the future, it may be included once approved.

GAVI Vaccine Alliance will supply 26 million doses to India, out of which 10 million doses have already arrived.

Is One Dose Enough?

Yes.

According to experts at the World Health Organization:

A single dose is effective for girls aged 9 to 20 years
Women aged 21 years and above require two doses
Individuals with weakened immunity are advised three doses

Is This the First Time in India? What About Other Countries?

After HPV vaccination began in Australia:

HPV prevalence among young women dropped from 22.7% to 1.5%.

Some Indian states have already implemented the program:

Sikkim launched it in 2018, covering over 95% of girls
Punjab started in 2016 and vaccinated 97% of the target group.

Senior Bollywood and television actress Praveena Deshpande passed away at the age of 61 years on Tuesday. The information was shared by her family through her official Instagram account. Her last rites were performed on Tuesday afternoon at a crematorium in Andheri, Mumbai. The actress had been battling cancer for a long time.

She was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2019. During her bone marrow transplant, she remained in isolation for 17 days. Even after her diagnosis, she continued to stay active, but she had mentioned that her strength was gradually declining and she was losing the ability to work. She passed away on February 17.

Praveena Deshpande played the role of Shalini Choudhary in Ready. She also worked in films like Ek Villain, Gabbar Is Back, and Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran. Recently, she appeared in a cameo role in Emraan Hashmi’s web series ‘Taskari: The Smugglers Web’.

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer. It begins in the plasma cells of the bone marrow. It destroys normal blood cells and produces abnormal proteins. This can weaken bones and damage the kidneys.

It is a serious but treatable disease. Treatment options include chemotherapy and stem cell transplant.

Symptoms:

Bone pain in the spine, chest, or hips
Fatigue
Frequent infections
Kidney problems
Weight loss

Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause is unknown, but it is more common in older adults (60+) and in men.

Diagnosis:

Blood and urine tests (for M-spike)
Bone marrow biopsy
Bone scans

Early diagnosis and consultation with a specialist oncologist can help in effective management of the disease.

In today’s world, many of us stay up late — scrolling through our phones or watching “just one more episode.” But while it may feel harmless at the moment, habitual late nights can take a real toll. Chronic lack of restorative sleep can leave your body more vulnerable to fatigue, stress, inflammatory conditions, and even metabolic diseases such as diabetes.

During healthy sleep, our bodies produce critical hormones — like melatonin — and initiate repair and immune-boosting processes. Disrupting that cycle impairs the body’s ability to “recharge,” making immune cells less effective at defending against infections or potential malignancies.

What I tell my patients: Treat sleep as a medical priority

If you care about long-term health — including lowering the risk of cancer and other diseases — maintaining consistent, good-quality sleep is as important as any diet, exercise or screening recommendation I could give.

Here’s what I recommend:

- Aim for 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. This gives your immune system the time it needs to regenerate.

- Avoid blue-light exposure (phones, screens) at least an hour before bedtime — that late-night scrolling habit disrupts melatonin release, making restorative sleep harder.

- Make sleep a non-negotiable part of your daily routine — just as you would for taking medication or attending routine checkups.

The broader view: Sleep is foundational to immunity and health

Good sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a biological necessity. Over the years in cancer care, I have seen how lifestyle factors — nutrition, physical activity, stress management — play a huge role in shaping a person’s overall wellbeing. But among all habits, chronic sleep deprivation stands out as a silent — and common — culprit that wears down the body’s natural defences.

If you want to protect your immunity, improve healing, and reduce long-term risk of disease — start by honouring your nights.

Surat: According to the report, a woman in Utter Pradesh opened her mouth very wide while trying to eat a large golgappa in one bite. This sudden, excessive mouth opening can cause the mandibular condyle to slip out of ( glenoid fossa )its normal position in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — resulting in a jaw dislocation.

Jaw dislocation is a well-known emergency in maxillofacial practice, especially when the mouth is forced open beyond its natural limit.

Probable Medical Causes

1. Excessive mouth opening

   Trying to fit a large golgappa can push the mandible forward and down, displacing the condyle out of the socket.

2. Weak TMJ ligament support

   Some individuals naturally have looser joints (hypermobility) or weaker supportive ligaments, increasing dislocation risk.

3. Sudden or forceful movement

   Sudden yawning, laughing, biting, or eating can shock the joint.

4. Previous minor TMJ issues

   If the patient had prior clicking, popping, or stiffness, the joint may already be vulnerable.

5. Muscle spasm

   After dislocation, the masseter and pterygoid muscles often spasm, locking the jaw in the open position.

Symptoms That Indicate Jaw Dislocation

 Mouth stuck open and unable to close

 Severe pain near the ears

 Difficulty speaking or swallowing

 Drooling

 Jaw shifted forward

 Inability to bite or chew

1. Immediate Care

 Go to a dental/maxillofacial emergency department.

 A trained  maxillofacial surgeon performs manual reduction — gently guiding the jaw back into place, often under sedation or muscle relaxants.

 Do NOT attempt to push the jaw back forcibly at home.

2. Post-Reduction Care

 compression band around chin and TMJ area

 Soft diet for 1–2 weeks

 Avoid opening the mouth wide

 Support the chin while yawning

 Use warm compresses to relax muscles

 Painkillers and muscle relaxants as prescribed

3. Prevention of Future Episodes

Avoid large bites (golgappa, burgers, rolls, sandwiches in one bite)

Cut food into smaller pieces

 Avoid sudden wide yawning

 Avoid chewing hard food

 If TMJ is naturally loose, consider a stabilization appliance or physiotherapy exercises

Jaw dislocation from eating is uncommon but absolutely possible, especially when someone takes an oversized bite. As maxillofacial surgeons, we emphasize controlled mouth opening, small bites, and early treatment. Timely reduction prevents long-term TMJ damage, chronic pain, and repeated dislocations.

In a shocking incident, Surat Police recently recovered 200 kg of fake paneer from a well-known local dairy during a raid. What appears at first to be a food-adulteration case is, in fact, a major public-health threat — one that every household must take seriously.

As a practising physician, I see the impact of adulterated dairy products more often than people realise. Paneer is a staple in Indian kitchens, but when it is made using detergents, starch, synthetic milk, hydrogenated fats or urea, it becomes a slow poison.

This incident is a reminder that “fake paneer” is not just cheating — it is dangerous.

Why Fake Paneer Is Harmful:

1. Severe Stomach & Intestinal Problems

Fake paneer often contains washing powder, starch, thickening agents or spoiled milk, which can irritate the stomach lining.
Common symptoms include:

- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhoea
- Food poisoning requiring hospitalisation

2. Kidney Stress and Long-Term Damage

When paneer is made using urea or synthetic milk, the kidneys are forced to work overtime to flush out toxins.

This can cause:

- Kidney inflammation
- Dehydration
- Long-term kidney load in children and elderly

3. Hormonal & Fertility Issues

Synthetic milk or adulterated dairy sometimes contains harmful chemicals or hormone-mimicking substances, which may:

- Disturb hormonal balance
- Affect menstrual cycle
- Impair fertility in both men and women

4. Allergic Reactions & Skin Problems

Detergent-based paneer can cause:

- Rashes
- Burning in mouth
- Throat irritation
- Sudden allergic reactions

5. Weakened Immunity

Continuous consumption of adulterated paneer exposes the body to toxins, reducing its immune response over time — making children more prone to infections.

How to Identify Fake Paneer at Home

-Texture Test

Real paneer is soft, slightly grainy and breaks unevenly.
Fake paneer is rubbery, overly smooth, and cuts too perfectly.

-Hot Water Test

Put a cube of paneer in hot water for 10 minutes.

- Real paneer becomes soft
- Fake paneer becomes rubbery or disintegrates due to starch

-Smell Test

Paneer should never smell like soap, chemicals, or sour milk.

-Oil Test

When heated, fake paneer may release oil because it contains fats and starch mixtures.

-Price Suspicion

Paneer sold at a significantly lower price than market average is usually adulterated.

My Medical Advice to the Public

1. Buy paneer only from trusted, reputed dairies

Do not fall for cheap rates. Pure milk and paneer have a base cost. Extremely low prices are a red flag.

2. Prefer homemade paneer whenever possible

Boil milk, add lemon or vinegar, strain, and set — this is the safest method.

3. Avoid roadside vendors or unknown dairy brands

Many small setups do not follow hygiene or purity standards.

4. Always check colour and texture

Paneer should be white or slightly off-white — never bright white or spongy.

5. If you or your child develops stomach issues after eating paneer, avoid that brand

Report suspected adulteration to local authorities or FSSAI helplines.

6. Diabetic, elderly and kidney-patients must be extra careful

Even small quantities of chemical-based paneer can cause serious complications.

The recovery of 200 kg fake paneer in Surat is not an isolated incident — it is a warning. As consumers, we must stay alert. As doctors, we urge people not to ignore the quality of foods they consume daily.

Food adulteration directly harms health. Awareness and caution are our strongest defence.