Oil pulling and oral health
Oil pulling has made waves on social media lately, but this ancient practice has been around for centuries. It involves swishing cooking oil (usually sesame or coconut) in your mouth for 15-20 minutes each day. Advocates claim it reduces mouth bacteria and whitens teeth. But does it really work? Let’s break it down.
A brief history of oil pulling
Oil pulling originated in India and southern Asia, where it was used to heal oral injuries. Traditionally, sesame oil was the go-to, believed to help with:
- Bad breath
- Dry or cracked lips
- Sore or bleeding gums
- Tooth decay
- Throat ailments
Though its popularity has ebbed and flowed, oil pulling is back in vogue, often featuring coconut oil instead.
What are the potential benefits?
Supporters tout a range of benefits, from reducing plaque to alleviating allergies and headaches. While many claims are unproven, oil pulling may help fight plaque and gum disease when paired with a solid daily oral health routine.
What are the potential health risks?
Oil pulling can cause minor issues like an upset stomach from accidentally swallowing the oil or a strained, tired jaw from swishing for 20 minutes each day. More research is needed to determine whether oil pulling poses any long-term risks.
Our verdict
Oil pulling isn’t harmful, but it’s not a replacement for traditional oral care. It won’t whiten your teeth and more evidence is needed to confirm its health benefits. For a healthier mouth, stick to brushing twice and flossing once daily.
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