Swishing for Whiter Teeth? The Truth About Coconut Oil Pulling

Written By Dr. Tiffany

Imagine this: an ancient technique used for centuries to promote overall wellness, all based on swishing oil in your mouth. Sounds strange, right? This is the essence of coconut oil pulling, an Ayurvedic practice that has gained recent traction despite the lack of conclusive scientific evidence. But does it actually work? Let's delve into the science behind this curious ritual.

Coconut oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil around your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Proponents claim this action "pulls" out toxins and bacteria, leading to a range of benefits like whiter teeth, fresher breath, and improved gum health.

Intrigued by these claims, I decided to investigate the research myself. Here's what I found:

  • Promising signs for bacteria reduction: A 2016 study involving 60 adults showed promise. After daily oil pulling with coconut oil for 10 minutes, participants had a significant reduction in Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium linked to plaque buildup and tooth decay, compared to those using distilled water.

  • Effectiveness against gingivitis: An earlier study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that coconut oil pulling was as effective as a chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing S. mutans levels in children with gingivitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, and chlorhexidine is a common antiseptic mouthwash.

  • Limited evidence for other claims: Unfortunately, there's a lack of strong scientific evidence for other supposed benefits of coconut oil pulling, such as teeth whitening or detoxification.

  • Safety considerations: While generally safe, there are a few things to keep in mind. Avoid swallowing the oil, as it can cause diarrhea. If you experience any jaw pain, shorten the swishing duration or discontinue use altogether. Be sure to spit out coconut oil into the trash.

The Takeaway

Coconut oil pulling shows promise as a complementary approach to oral hygiene, particularly for reducing harmful bacteria. However, it's not a magic bullet. Brushing and flossing remain essential for optimal oral health. If you're curious about trying coconut oil pulling, discuss it with your physician first.

 

Citations

Dr. Tiffany
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