The Toothache Goddess - 'Washya Dyo' or ‘Danteshwori Devi’

Kathmandu, an ancient historical city, boasts numerous temples, including the shrine of Washya Dyo or Danteshwori Devi, meaning 'Goddess that heals toothache' in the local Newari language. Located in Bangemudha, the shrine has stood for centuries. Unfortunately, the gold-caved idol of the Goddess was stolen more than thirty years ago, leaving only a wooden block in front of the temple. This led to the naming of the place as ‘Bangemudha,’ literally translating to 'crooked log.'

Local worshippers seek relief from toothaches by nailing a coin onto the wooden log and presenting clay bowls containing rice grains, betel nuts, and coins as offerings.

Close to this deity, there is a traditional street named Naghal, meaning 'iron vessel,' where both traditional and a few newer dental clinics are situated. According to locals, some clinics in Naghal have existed for over seventy years and have been served by more than three generations of practitioners. Many locals recall the history of the Late Rana Prime Minister Chandra Shamsher, who sent Asta Man Rajbhandari and Ghana Man Rajbhandari of Naghal to India for dentistry training over one hundred years ago. Dr. Dwarika Man Rajbhandari, a qualified dentist, later initiated his practice in Naghal, followed by the second and third generations of qualified dentists.

The Nepal Dental Association, established in 1990 with Dr. Basanta Bahadur Rajbhandari as its first founder and president, has played a significant role in the improvement of oral health in the country. Over the years, NDA has organized numerous national and international seminars, camps, health programs, and publications.

With more than 900 members and various regional branches, the association has witnessed the growth of 12 dental colleges in Nepal. Each year, the country produces graduates and postgraduates in different branches of dentistry.

The dental landscape in Nepal has evolved with the presence of dental clinics, colleges, hospitals, dental suppliers, and pharmaceuticals. Awareness about oral health among Nepalese has increased, leading to more people seeking early treatment and advice from dentists. NDA's primary objective is to enhance the oral health status of the Nepalese people.

Reference: "Bangemudha & Naghal: The Prevailing Dental History of Nepal" by Kriti Mainali, Astha Shrestha, Anisha Vaidya, Samrita Shrestha, Srikant Yadav, Nikhil Joshi. Dentistry of Nepal Vol. 3 No. 1 (September 2008).