An ancient method of swishing oil in the mouth is the current craze for improving dental hygiene. But does it really work? Dr. Hadis Reyhani, Dr. Ben Reyhani, and Dr. Hakimzadeh answer common questions asked about this popular homecare therapy.
What is oil pulling?
Oil pulling is a holistic practice of Ayurvedic medicine that originated in India some 3,000 to 5,000 years ago. The phrase “oil pulling” comes from the process of working about one tablespoon of oil around in the mouth by pulling, pushing, and sucking it through the teeth. The theory is as the oil goes over the teeth and gums, bacteria are sucked out and held firmly in the solution.
The oil is swished around the mouth for 15 to 20 minutes until it becomes a milky white, indicating that the solution is full of bacteria and other microbes. The oil is then spit out before the person thoroughly rinses the mouth with water.
What oils are used?
Some people use sesame or sunflower oil, but because these oils have omega 6 fats that are pro-inflammatory, coconut oil should be used for oil pulling. Half of the fat in coconut oil is comprised of lauric acid, which is known for its antimicrobial actions and inhibiting Strep mutans, a bacteria that causes tooth decay.
Does oil pulling offer true dental benefits?
People who advocate oil pulling claim that it removes plaque, whitens teeth, alleviates halitosis, reduces gingivitis, and prevents cavities. Although there has been no published U.S. scientific research to back these claims, three studies by universities in India found oil pulling can be useful in maintaining and improving oral health.
What do you recommend if I oil pull?
If you decide to try oil pulling, start slowly, as the taste and sensation of the oil can sometimes cause nausea or gagging.
Begin your daily routine with just a teaspoon of oil and swish it around your mouth for only five minutes. As you become comfortable with the practice, add more oil and time until you have reached one tablespoon of oil and up to 20 minutes of swishing.
The process should be done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, and care needs to be taken to not swallow any of the oil. After vigorously swishing the oil in your mouth, you should spit it out into a trashcan, rather than the sink, because oil can clog the pipes. Once the oil has been spit out, thoroughly rinse the mouth with water.
Do I still need to brush and floss my teeth?
Oil pulling is not a replacement for dental care. Teeth should be brushed and flossed after you have oil pulled, to remove any existing residue and debris. Also, you should still continue your twice-a-year dental checkups and cleanings.
About Your Dentists of Downey Family Dental
The dentists at Downey Family Dental offer a variety of restorative, preventive and cosmetic dentistry for the entire family in the Downey, Lakewood, Whittier, Pico Rivera, Norwalk and surrounding communities. For an appointment, call (562) 645-4570.
