You’ve seen people doing some trendy things on social media, whether recreating the latest viral dances, sharing what they eat in a day, or divulging their beauty and health hacks. While it’s not the most recent trend, #oilpulling gained popularity on social media apps as influencers shared their techniques and tips for teeth whitening and combating bad breath. However, with everything else on the internet, there are risks associated with trying a viral trend, and it’s not for everyone.
So, should you add oil pulling to your oral health routine? Keep reading as we discuss what it is, its benefits, and safety to help you determine whether you should hop on board this trend or swipe left to move on to the next one.
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an oral health method that involves swishing edible oil in the mouth for at least 15 minutes, believed to offer benefits comparable to those of mouthwash. Oil pulling claims offer natural benefits, like freshening breath, removing bacteria and tartar, whitening teeth, and improving oral health.
This recent social media trend isn’t a recent discovery; oil pulling has been around for thousands of years. It’s an ancient practice that involved traditional remedies for addressing a multitude of oral health concerns, like bleeding gums, weak teeth, and bad breath. It’s been around for centuries but has recently gained the attention of influencers and the general public, opting for a natural addition to their oral health routine rather than conventional medicine, like prescription-strength mouthwashes.
Oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of edible oil, such as coconut, sesame, or olive oil, around in your mouth for up to 20 minutes. Because these edible, natural oils have antimicrobial properties, it’s believed that swishing the oil through your teeth will pull impurities and germs, leaving you with a cleaner mouth, fresher breath, and whiter teeth. However, never start oil pulling without first consulting your dentist. Oil pulling may present health concerns, like digestive issues, jaw strain, or interactions with dental work. Consult your dentist to determine whether oil pulling would be beneficial for your oral health routine.
Is Oil Pulling Effective?
One of the most frequently asked questions we’ve been hearing recently at Rhoades Family Dentistry is whether oil pulling is effective or should be added to our patients’ oral health routine. The answer is twofold; while oil pulling can offer some benefits, the American Dental Association (ADA) advises against using it as an alternative to brushing, flossing, or fluoride toothpastes or mouthwashes. You’ll still want to implement proper brushing, flossing, and a healthy diet rather than relying on oil pulling.
Risks of Oil Pulling
Though it can be effective at removing bacteria, there are some concerns associated with oil pulling. Below are some of the risks:
- Allergic reactions to the oil
- Soreness of the jaw muscles from swishing for extended periods
- Delaying dental care, thinking you don’t need routine cleanings or preventative treatments
- Inhaling or swallowing oil
If you do implement oil pulling, choose an oil you’re not allergic to. Visit your dentist regularly, as oil pulling is not an alternative to brushing, flossing, and other preventative dental treatments. Also, if you do implement oil pulling, spit the oil into a tissue and dispose of it in the garbage; spitting oil into a sink can clog your drains.
Is Oil Pulling Right for You?
While you might be tempted to grab an edible oil next time you’re at the store and start oil pulling, consult your dentist before adding it to your oral health routine. Oil pulling is generally considered safe and can be a cost-effective alternative to mouthwashes or remedies for chronic bad breath (halitosis), removing bacteria, and alleviating some symptoms of gingivitis.
While research on the effects of oil pulling is limited, some studies have suggested that using coconut oil is comparable to chlorhexidine, a prescription mouthwash that helps reduce levels of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that causes tooth decay. According to the ADA, oil pulling should not be used in place of daily oral hygiene care, like brushing and flossing.
So, while oil pulling might help reduce bacteria in the mouth and freshen breath, it’s best to consult your dentist about whether you should add it to your dental hygiene routine.
Rhoades Family Dentistry Will Help You Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Rhoades Family Dentistry offers dental care for the entire family, including routine cleanings, preventative maintenance, whitening, fillings, and more. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll care about your family’s oral health and are here to help recommend the best type of oral hygiene practices for your specific needs and treatment. While oil pulling is generally considered safe, our team will help determine whether you should use it in your routine or suggest other preventative maintenance options.
Book an appointment today by scrolling up and clicking “BOOK AN APPOINTMENT” on the top left of your screen or by calling (913) 782-8900. We look forward to serving you by providing excellent dental care and giving your family healthy smiles!
