The Benefits of Oil Pulling: Fact or Fiction? - MySmile

The Benefits of Oil Pulling: Fact or Fiction?

Have you ever heard the word oil pulling? If not, then this blog is perfect for you! Find out here what oil pulling is and how it made a huge help in the field of oral health.

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing a type of oil, like coconut oil, in your mouth for a few minutes. To do it, you take a spoonful of oil and move it around your mouth, pushing and pulling it through your teeth. The oil collects bacteria and toxins from your mouth, which you then spit out. People often do oil pulling in the morning before eating or drinking anything. While it has been practiced for a long time, ongoing debate about its benefits and scientific evidence is limited. Check this article further to understand more.

Three Facts about Oil-pulling

  • Improved oral hygiene: Oil pulling involves swishing oil, typically coconut oil, in the mouth for a specified period, which proponents argue can help remove harmful bacteria and reduce plaque buildup. While some studies suggest that oil pulling may reduce certain bacteria in the mouth, more research is needed to establish its effectiveness as a primary oral hygiene method.
  • Potential gum health: Oil-pulling enthusiasts suggest that the practice can help improve gum health by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. However, scientific studies examining the effects of oil pulling on gum health still need improvement, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
  • Subjective teeth whitening: Some claim that oil pulling can naturally whiten teeth by reducing stains. While oil pulling may have a mild cleaning effect on the teeth's surface, it is unlikely to provide significant whitening effects compared to professional dental treatments or whitening products.

Two fictions about Oil Pulling

  • Oil pulling can cure systemic diseases: One of the common misconceptions about oil pulling is that it can cure or treat systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.Ā 
  • Oil pulling can replace regular dental care: Another misconception is that oil pulling can completely replace regular oral care, such as brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. While oil pulling may have some benefits, it is not a substitute for proper dental hygiene practices recommended by dental professionals. Maintaining a regular oral care routine is crucial for overall oral health, and oil pulling should be considered as an adjunct rather than a replacement for standard dental care.

While oil pulling has been practiced for centuries and holds anecdotal support, it's important to note that scientific research still needs to provide conclusive evidence to validate its purported benefits fully. That being said, continue utilizing dental health tools like Mysmile Teeth Wipes to strengthen your oral health care routine. It can effectively clean your teeth wherever you go.Ā 

Do you have any questions? Let us know if you'd like to discuss your queries by leaving a comment below.

Leave a comment

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.