There’s nothing new about oil pulling. In fact, the ancient Ayurvedic practice dates back more than 3000 years to the traditional Indian system of medicinal treatment. All over the world, it is believed to eliminate toxins from the body and prevent various diseases. Within American culture, the practice has been adopted as a supplemental means to treat oral ailments with the teeth and gums.
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is the act of swishing oil inside the mouth for about 20 minutes then spitting it out. While there is not enough hard evidence to support the use of oil pulling to cure oral diseases, there are some recent studies that suggest oil pulling can help fight against gingivitis, plaque build-up, and the bacteria growth that causes bad breath. The practice may have some profound oral health benefits, and it is a generally safe method to incorporate into an existing health regimen.
The Art of Swishing
So, how does it all work? The human mouth houses microorganisms, each one a single cell covered in a fatty membrane that encases the cell like a surface of skin. When the cells come in contact with oil, also a fatty substance, the microorganism and the oil join together, hence the “pulling” effect of microorganisms. The swishing motion helps bind the cells with the oil that we then spit out, removing microorganisms from the mouth.
Though various oils can be used, coconut oil has an added value of fighting bacteria that other oils don’t have. Made of lauric acid, coconut oil is an anti-microbial agent that could aid in the prevention of tooth decay, reduce inflammation, and fight off harmful bacteria.
How to Oil Pull
- Place 1 tablespoon of oil in the mouth. While coconut oil is more widely used, you can also use sesame or olive oils, which are said to have a milder taste.
- Sitting straight up, swish the oils inside the mouth continuously for 15-20 minutes while breathing through the nose. Twenty minutes is recommended, but if you don’t have that kind of time every day, 5 minutes of continuous swishing should do the trick.
- When done, spit out the oil into the garbage. Do not swallow coconut oil.
- Brush and floss your teeth normally after you oil pull. You may consider using a different toothbrush from your normal everyday toothbrush.
Things to Keep in Mind
It’s important to note that oil pulling may not be safe for individuals with certain allergies (e.g., coconut or various nuts). Aside from allergy risks for sensitive populations, there are no known adverse effects of oil pulling. However, it’s highly recommended that you consult your health care provider before incorporating oil pulling into your daily oral care practice.
Be careful not swallow the oil as you swirl it around inside the mouth. If your swishing becomes a bit tiresome, you may have used too much oil. In such case, you should spit it all out into the garbage and begin again. Spitting out oil down the sink is not a good idea for the maintenance and upkeep of your plumbing system. Some oils–like coconut oil–have hardening effects and can clog your pipes. Instead, you can throw away the used oil with your trash—either in a bag or a disposable container.
Many have asked if oil pulling can be a replacement for brushing and flossing. The answer is simple: Absolutely not! There is nothing that can replace brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis—at least not currently. Oil pulling is not a required oral health practice. It should instead be considered a supplement to your daily hygiene routine. It is important to remember that oil pulling will not reverse the effects of a decayed tooth.
Want to learn about other ways to enhance your oral care method? Schedule your next appointment online for a comprehensive consultation.