Oil Pulling: Is It Good For Your Mouth?
Posted on June 13, 2016
There have been reports all over social media on “oil pulling” and its benefits for dental and general health. The claims state that oil pulling—swishing oil in the mouth— can reduce bacteria, “cure” gum tissue inflammation, reduce dental decay, whitens teeth, and improves dental health and overall health.
For centuries, in ancient Asia and India, oil pulling have been practiced at a home remedy. The practice involves placing a tablespoon of an edible oil (e.g., sesame, olive, sunflower, coconut) inside the mouth, and swishing or “pulling” the oil through the teeth and mouth for anywhere from 1-5 minutes to up to 20 minutes or longer, then spitting it out.
Is oil pulling good for your mouth?
Currently, there are no reliable scientific studies to show that oil pulling reduces cavities, whitens teeth or improves oral health and well-being. Based on the lack of proven scientific evidence, the American Dental Association does not recommend oil pulling as a dental hygiene practice. The ADA continues to recommend that to maintain good dental health you brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and floss between your teeth once a day and don’t use tobacco. Talk to us more in details if you have additional questions about oral care and oil pulling.
Sunlight Dental Group