Oil pulling is a traditional practice that has been used for centuries to promote oral health. The procedure involves swishing oil through the mouth for several minutes in order to remove toxins and bacteria. In recent times, oil pulling has become a popular home remedy for naturally improving oral hygiene, reduction of bad breath, and possible detoxification of the body. But is it safe? Let’s look into what oil pulling is, whether it’s safe or not, and the potential risks involved, especially with coconut oil.
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What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an ancient oral hygiene technique wherein you will just take one tablespoon of oil and swish it in your mouth for about 5 to 20 minutes. The best oils that contain antibacterial properties to be used are coconut oil, or you can use sesame or sunflower oils. It is assumed that the oil “draws” toxins and bacteria from the mouth into itself, so improving overall oral cavity health. After swishing the oil around in your mouth, you’ll have a cleaner mouth.
Oil pulling is an old Ayurvedic practice that has long been thought to detoxify the body, strengthen the gums, and prevent cavities. Though oil pulling for teeth is a common practice in many people’s daily lives, modern science has never fully proven any of these beliefs. Some research suggests that oil pulling can lower the amount of bacteria in the mouth and may even enhance gum health; however, additional research is needed.
Is Oil Pulling Safe?
Oil pulling is usually safe for most people if done correctly. The process of oil pulling involves swishing edible oil that is usually known to be safe for use in the mouth. However, precautions do exist.
Possible Health Hazards:
- Lipid pneumonia: One of the rare, very serious risks of oil pulling is lipid pneumonia. This refers to what happens if you accidentally inhale some oil into your lungs while swishing. Indeed, this is very uncommon, but this is something you should still be aware of, especially in the case of children, as well as those who have great difficulties controlling their swallowing reflexes.
- Swallowing the Oil: Though safe for consumption, coconut oil and other oils used during oil pulling may upset the stomach when ingested. This is because the oil has collected bacteria and other particles from your mouth, and ingesting it could lead to nausea or digestive discomfort. Spit it out when done.
- Allergies: Individuals with allergies to coconut or other oils should not use that oil for this treatment. For instance, if a person has an allergy to coconut, they could switch to sesame or sunflower oil.
Oil pulling should not replace regular brushing and flossing. Oil pulling can be an additional dental care activity, but it does not replace the action of eliminating plaque or preventing cavities, as brushing with fluoride toothpaste does.
Overall, if done correctly and in parallel with traditional oral care, oil pulling is considered safe for most.
Coconut Oil Pulling Dangers
Coconut oil is an excellent option for pulling because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. However, like other comparable practices, coconut oil has a few dangers.
- Choking hazard: It can be a choking threat for a kid or anyone who has difficulties swallowing while using coconut oil, particularly during the swishing phase, therefore oil pulling should be avoided for children under the age of three.
- Upset Stomach: Coconut oil, if swallowed accidentally after oil pulling, may cause nausea, stomach discomfort, and diarrhea. It collects dangerous bacteria and toxins during swishing, which is why it is usually spit out rather than consumed.
- Coconut oil allergies: Some people are allergic to coconut oil. Itching, swelling, or rash after oil pulling may be a sign of an allergic reaction and you should quit coconut oil usage instantly. Sesame or sunflower oil might work better for you.
Despite all of these concerns, most people continue to use coconut oil for oil-pulling purposes since it benefits their dental health, such as reduction in gum irritation and the removal of harmful germs.
How to do Oil Pulling
If you plan to try oil pulling, it’s important to do it the right way so that you get the best results and avoid potential complications.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform oil pulling:
- Choose your oil: Coconut oil is the most commonly recommended oil for its antibacterial properties; however, sesame and sunflower oils can be used as alternatives. Make sure it is of high quality and edible.
- Measure the oil: Take approximately one tablespoon of oil and place it in your mouth. Beginners can start with a smaller amount if one tablespoon feels too much.
- Swish the oil: Swish the oil in your mouth for 5-20 minutes. Don’t swallow it because it will contain all the bacteria and toxins from your mouth. You should try to move it between your teeth and around your gums.
- Spit it out: Once you are done, spit it out into a trash can; do not spit in the sink as the oil can clog the drains. Oil will foam up to be white and frothy once you swish. This means it has mixed with the saliva and air.
- Rinse your mouth and brush: After spitting out, rinse your mouth with adequate water and brush your teeth. It gets rid of all leftover oil and bacteria around your mouth.
- Consistency: For the best results, try to do oil pulling regularly. Many people swish for about 15 minutes every morning before eating or drinking anything.
While oil pulling may be beneficial for some people, it is important to note that it should add to, not replace, your usual oral hygiene practice.
Conclusion
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic technique that might improve your oral hygiene routine, especially if you prefer natural remedies. When done correctly, it is typically safe for most individuals and can help in reducing the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth, refreshing the breath, and improving gum health. However, it is important to remember that oil pulling should not be used in place of brushing and flossing, and some risks can arise such as lipid pneumonia and digestive problems, and discomfort, particularly when using coconut oil.
If you want to practice oil pulling, start carefully and take the right precautions to ensure a safe and effective experience. As always, if you have any concerns or questions about adding oil pulling into your daily practice, consult your dentist.