The Truth behind Oil Pulling for Whiter Teeth

Oil pulling is a teeth whitening technique of using gargling coconut oil in mouth. It was developed in Ayurveda, an Indian Traditional Medicine, from 2500 years ago. It is said to be a concept that aids in nourishing the body tissue. Users said that oil pulling gave them white teeth, decreased gum problems, makes breath sweeter, decreases arthritis pain, and prevents tooth decay. It was also claimed to be treatment for systemic diseases such as mental exhaustion, asthma, anorexia, and impaired vision.

Oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that are utilized in Ayurveda to nourish the tissues in the body. Some people who practice oil pulling said that they do get the benefits from it but it doesn’t make their teeth whiter.

There are people who disagreed and claimed oil pulling has whitened their teeth. They also felt their mouths are cleaner and made it part of their daily routines. Some people suggest oil pulling for 20 minutes to get the most out of the oil but some claimed this should not be practiced and recommended swishing the oil for just five minutes the most. Overdoing oil pulling can result to nausea.

A small teaspoon is enough to get results from oil pulling. The oil to be used must suit the needs of the person. Oils that should not be used for oil pulling are flax oil and hydrogenated oils, like corn, peanut, and canola soy.

According to practitioners, oil pulling must be done in the morning before eating breakfast. It can be done once a day, for three to four times per week.

Lydia Hall, an American Dental Association spokesperson, stated that the organization couldn’t comment on oil pulling unless research was done on the subject. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research said there is no ongoing research on oil pulling.

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