An antiquated Indian treatment known as oil pulling is thought to lessen oral disease and harmful bacteria. Since it is affordable and readily available, coconut oil is growing in popularity for oil pulling.
Many studies have proved that it enhances tooth hygiene and oral health. The effectiveness of coconut oil for oil pulling may offer considerable advantages. This blog examined the impact of coconut oil pulling on tooth hygiene and oral health.
What is oil pulling?
Oil pulling is a dental treatment that uses oil as a mouthwash for various benefits. Our mouth is home to hundreds of different species of bacteria, some helpful and some harmful. Plaque on teeth can lead to issues including cavities, gum inflammation, gum disease, and poor breath. Oil pulling eliminates these bacteria that have been dissolved in the liquid oil. To minimize harmful germs in the mouth, all you need to do is swish a tablespoon (15 millilitres) of oil around for 15 to 20 minutes. Due to its delectable flavour and useful fatty acid composition, which includes significant levels of lauric acid and antibacterial characteristics, extra-virgin coconut oil is preferred.
Why coconut oil?
Sesame is frequently used in gandusha by ayurvedic practitioners, but coconut oil is a better choice because it has properties to:
- Regulate hormones
- Fight candida
- Enhance digestion
- Moisturize skin
- Lessen cellulite
- Lessen wrinkles
- Balance blood sugar
- Boost vitality
Unrefined/Virgin coconut oil guarantees no additives and is suitable for oil pulling. Coconut oil pulling is advised over other seed oils since it can potentially treat gingivitis, Streptococcus mutans, and other health problems.
Benefits of coconut oil pulling
Kills harmful bacteria
Plaque accumulation and tooth decay are largely caused by the common oral bacterium Streptococcus mutans. According to studies, daily applications of coconut oil for 10 minutes can considerably lower the amount of S. mutans in saliva within two weeks. Coconut oil was discovered to be just as efficient for kids as a typical chlorhexidine mouthwash.
Reduce plaque and gingivitis
Gum inflammation and immune system assaults on bacteria cause plaque to produce gingivitis. In a study, sesame oil pulling and chlorhexidine mouthwash were proven to be effective treatments for gingivitis. Similar advantages of coconut oil include substantially reducing aerobic plaque bacteria in kids with plaque-induced gingivitis.
Prevent bad breath
As the bacteria in the mouth tend to accumulate, it causes bad breath. Poor dental hygiene, an infection, or gum disease may be to blame. According to a Source, oil pulling may be a successful all-natural cure for bad breath.
Reduce inflammation and improve gum health
A frequent gum condition that results in redness, swelling, and inflammation is largely caused by plaque bacteria. By lowering plaque formation and oil pulling, coconut oil can reduce inflammation and prevent plaque-induced gingivitis.
See also: Coconut Oil For Psoriasis: How Does It Work?
Teeth whitening
The claim that oil pulling help whiten teeth has not been supported by scientific research. Anecdotal evidence, however, indicates that it might remove stains from the surfaces of the teeth. The risk of attempting to whiten the teeth in this manner is minimal.
How to oil pull?
- Make sure to oil pull first thing in the morning before brushing your teeth or drinking anything.
- One tablespoon of coconut oil should be gently rubbed between teeth and mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid swallowing any of the oil.
- Don’t spit the oil in the sink to avoid clogging the pipes.
- Rinse your mouth out right away with warm water (salt water has different antibacterial qualities).
- Brush your teeth as usual to finish.
Final thoughts
The Ayurvedic technique of coconut oil pulling can help prevent cavities, foul breath, bleeding gums, irritation, and dry throat. However, People with coconut or coconut oil allergies should avoid using this method. There are no other known dangers. The presence of lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, makes it the best. Sunflower and sesame oils are excellent alternatives. Essential oils can be used in the process to increase the advantages.