What Is Oil Pulling? What You Need To Know.

Oil pulling is meant to remove germs and stimulate saliva production, among other benefits. As described in an article in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, a monthly peer-reviewed medical journal published in the United States, oil pulling generally involves swishing a tablespoon full of oil around your mouth first thing in the morning. The oil is "pulled" between the teeth and all around the mouth for up to 20 minutes. At the end of the pulling, when the oil is milky and thin, you spit it out in the trash. Never swallow the oil after pulling — it's full of germs.

There have been numerous studies on oil pulling's effect on oral health and hygiene, and discussions about which type of oil is best.

• One study noted that oil pulling with coconut oil was as effective as chlorhexidine, a prescription mouthwash, in the reduction of Streptococcus mutans, the germ believed to cause tooth decay.
• Another study published in the open-access Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine concluded that oil pulling with coconut oil is more effective than sesame oil in reducing the severity of gum problems.
• Olive oil is also believed to be a good substance for oil pulling as its ingredients have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Although these and other small-scale studies draw positive conclusions about oil pulling, the American Dental Association (ADA) does not consider oil pulling to be a reliable dental hygiene practice or a replacement for brushing and flossing.

There aren't any known physical side effects from oil pulling. However, you might notice a sore jaw or headache at first from the rigorous motion of oil pulling. If you swallow the oil, it could cause an upset stomach or diarrhoea.

Oil pulling should never be used in place of brushing and flossing. Always adhere to your dentist's recommended dental regimen, and only add in alternative therapies like oil pulling after discussion with your dentist.

Unfortunately, there's no magic remedy to make your teeth perfectly white and healthy. What's been proven to work over time is developing and maintaining a proper oral care routine. While brushing and flossing provide the foundation for such a routine, the steps to maintaining it are rather simple:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Use a fluoride-based toothpaste
• Drink fluoridated water
• Use mouthwash if your dentist recommends it.

Most importantly, floss every day and brush in the morning and evening.

You only get one set of permanent teeth, so taking care of them is essential. Oil pulling does have some promising attributes, but more research needs to be done to prove its effectiveness and safety. No matter which natural remedies you're interested in trying, never give up your daily brushing and flossing for a healthy smile.

Disclaimer:

The above information is provided for informational purposes only. Colgate does not accept any liability should the above recommendations have an outcome contrary to the intended result. Always seek the advice of a qualified doctor or dental professional. Do not disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article.