Recently we’ve heard a lot of people talking about oil pulling. Proponents of oil pulling claim that swishing oil in the mouth every day whitens teeth, and improves dental health and overall health. This action reportedly draws out toxins in your body which can help to reduce inflammation.
Oil pulling is an ancient, traditional folk remedy that has been practiced for centuries in India and southern Asia. 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.
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 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.
If you have specific questions or if you have tried oil pulling – we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact Moore Family Dental.