Oil pulling is a popular natural treatment for improving your oral health and detoxing your mouth. Is it really possible to make oil pulling work? Find out what dentists have to say about oil pulling, and how to keep your smile healthy.
Natural remedies are popular for whitening the teeth and detoxing your mouth. Oil pulling is an ancient method that purportedly removes impurities and improves oral health. It’s important that you get all the facts about any oral health treatment and consult your dentist before making a decision.
What’s Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling can be used to stimulate saliva production and remove bacteria. Oil pulling, as described in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine article, involves swirling a tablespoon of oil around your mouth in the early morning.
For up to 20 minutes, the oil is “pulled” between your teeth and around your mouth. When the oil becomes milky-thin, you can spit it out. Do not swallow the oil after pulling. It’s full with bacteria.
How does oil pulling work?
Numerous studies have been done on the effects of oil pulling on oral hygiene and oral health. There has also been much discussion about which oil is the best.
- One study found that oil pulling with coconut oils was as effective at reducing Streptococcus Mutans, the bacteria responsible for tooth decay.
- A second study, published in Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine, concluded that coconut oil can be used to pull oil with less severe gingivitis than sesame oil.
- Because of its antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, olive oil is believed to be an excellent substance for oil pulling.
These and other small-scale studies have drawn positive conclusions about oil pull, but the American Dental Association (ADA), does not consider oil pull to be a reliable practice in dental hygiene or a substitute for flossing.
Side Effects of Oil Pulling
Oil pulling has no known side effects. Oil pulling can cause a sore jaw and headaches at first. You might experience diarrhea or upset stomach if you swallow the oil.
Do not use oil pulling to replace brushing and flossing. Stick to the recommended regimen of your dentist and only consider oil pulling if you have discussed it with your dentist.
Keep Your Mouth Healthy
There is no magic solution to whiten your teeth and keep them healthy. It’s important to develop and maintain a good dental care routine. Although flossing and brushing are the basics of a good routine, maintaining it is easy.
- A healthy and balanced diet is essential
- Use a fluoride based toothpaste
- Fluoridated water is recommended
- Use a mouth rinse if your dentist recommends it
Remember to floss daily and brush every morning and night.
One set of permanent teeth is available to you, so it’s important to take care of them. Although oil pulling has some promising qualities, more research is needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness. You don’t have to stop flossing and brushing your teeth every day, no matter what natural remedy you are interested in.