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Triphala is an important rasayana drug, used since time immemorial and described in the Ayurveda as a "tridoshic rasayana" (Charka 1500 BC), having balancing and rejuvenating effects on the three constitutional elements that govern human life (vata, pitta, and kapha). The synergy of the three "fruits" (Amalaki-Phyllanthus emblica, Bibhitaki-Terminalia belerica, and Haritaki-Terminalia chebula) produces the tonifying, detoxifying, mildly antiseptic, rejuvenative and laxative effects of this classic formulation. Such a wide array of actions of triphala is supposed to be because of the 47 tannins and 35 phytochemicals which have been so far isolated from it. In Ayurveda, Triphala holds a paramount position as, naturally; many illnesses require first to be treated with purificatory therapy. In recent times, Triphala is being widely studied and researched in the dental arena for its anti-caries, antioxidant, anti-collagenase, and anti-microbial activities. This review on Triphala throws an inclusive limelight on the properties of Triphala and its numerous applications in dentistry.

Periodontal dressings have a history of nine decades and yet, the uses and benefits of periodontal dressings are questioned. There are different types of periodontal dressings based on the composition, setting, consistency, and solubility. Various authors have studied the properties of periodontal dressings. However, majority of them have emphasized only on their biocompatibility and therapeutic benefits. Eugenol-based periodontal dressings are no longer used due to their cytotoxic properties. Currently, popular ones are zinc oxide-based without eugenol in their composition. Although light-cured periodontal dressings fetched some attention due to its biocompatibility, aesthetics and comfort in application, its use is limited due to relatively higher cost. Mucoadhesive patches were introduced, however, due to their limited action time, it is not indicated universally. In recent times, there is growing interest in biological dressing materials which are found to be more tissue friendly and aid in better healing. Literature reveals mixed opinions on the use of periodontal dressings in different clinical scenarios. As there is no proper consensus on the use of periodontal dressings, it becomes the choice of a clinician to decide on the use of periodontal dressing based on the clinical condition.

Smear layer removal and collagen fiber exposure may improve periodontal treatment and regeneration. This in vitro study assessed smear layer removal and morphological changes (collagen fiber exposure) after tetracycline hydrochloride (TTC) application on root surfaces using different concentrations and application times by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). 672 samples were divided into eight groups: a control (distilled water) and seven different TTC concentrations were applied at doses of 10, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 mg/ml. The TTC application was performed in all groups at three different periods of conditioning (1, 2, and 3 minutes) by burnishing method. A previously trained, calibrated examiner evaluated photomicrographs.Statistical analysis was performed using the Fischer Exact test. Tetracycline hydrochloride concentrations between 50 mg/ml and 150 mg/ml and all application periods used, showed effective root surface changes. The concentrations of 50 mg/ml, 75 mg/ml and 100 mg/ml at 3 and 5 minutes showed most effective smear layer removal. Most effective morphological root surface changes were seen at 100 mg/ml TTC solution at 5 minutes. The concentrations of 50 mg/ml, 75 mg/ml and 100 mg/ml during 5 minutes were the most effective for smear layer removal and 100 mg/ml TTC solution at 5 minutes showed most effective morphological root surface changes.

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