I have been doing oil pulling with coconut oil for many years. I read a long time ago about the benefits of oil pulling and how it can help reverse cavities and remineralize and whiten teeth. I have definitely noticed less plaque and improved dental health since I started! Recently I came across several articles online questioning oil pulling and whether it could be dangerous.
Here’s what I’ve learned about the pros and cons of oil pulling and your overall health.
What is Coconut Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that originates from Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medicine of India. It has long been used to promote oral hygiene and overall health by eliminating harmful bacteria. And reduces plaque buildup.
The process involves gargling a tablespoon of the oil on an empty stomach for 5 to 20 minutes and then spitting it out. The term “oil pulling” comes from pulling and pushing oil through the teeth, which creates a washing machine-like motion. Oil pulling works by helping to break down plaque while cleaning your teeth.
Traditional oral hygiene routines in India commonly use sesame oil. However, any type of cold-pressed cooking oil will work. Olive oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil are all popular choices. I think coconut oil would be the best!
Coconut oil may also be most effective. The “saponification index” is high. This means that it can react with saliva to form a type of soap. Natural foam helps reduce plaque and clean teeth.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
Why do people do coconut oil pulling? Oil pulling has many oral health benefits. Some of these include reducing plaque, reducing the severity of gingivitis, and reducing cavities. It can whiten your teeth and potentially even address bad breath (bad breath).
Oil pulling’s ability to reduce plaque may help prevent gum disease by improving gum health. In a 2009 study, oil pulling helped improve plaque-induced gingivitis. This is very important because gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious gum disease that can lead to tooth and bone loss.
Oil pulling is also a way to treat chronic bad breath. A study of 60 hostel students compared oil pulling with prescription chlorhexidine, a mouthwash. Oil pulling was as effective in reducing bad breath as prescription.
Coconut oil may be better than other oils for maintaining dental hygiene due to its lauric acid. Lauric acid is an antibacterial compound that kills harmful bacteria associated with cavities. Streptococcus mutans.
What do dentists say?
The American Dental Association (ADA) does not recommend oil pulling due to limited scientific evidence that it improves dental health. They say oil pulling can help remove debris from teeth. However, they believe the benefits of oil pulling are anecdotal or come from limited research.
On the other hand, some studies show it may be possible. For example, some studies show that oil pulling may help manage gingivitis and bad breath. Scientific evidence is adding over time, but we’re not there yet.
Critics of the ADA say its controversial recommendations for fluoride treatments and mercury fillings don’t exactly support patient health. However, as scientific research on oil pulling accumulates, its benefits may become widely accepted.
Coconut Oil Attraction Side Effects
Although generally considered safe, oil pulling with coconut oil has some potential side effects. Fortunately, the risks of skipping coconut oil are not serious.
upset stomach
The taste and texture of coconut oil may make some people feel nauseous. Sometimes it’s because you accidentally swallowed some. However, starting with too much oil can also cause nausea if it overwhelms your system. To prevent nausea, start with 1 teaspoon and gradually work up to a tablespoon. Start with 5-10 minutes instead of 15-20 minutes.
jaw pain
Paddling for long periods of time (10 to 20 minutes) can cause fatigue or pain in the jaw muscles, especially in people who grind their teeth or have TMJ issues. Once again, start by brushing for 5 to 10 minutes rather than 15 to 20, and avoid clenching your teeth or brushing too hard. Over time, your jaw muscles will become stronger and your endurance will improve.
allergic reaction
Although uncommon, some people may be allergic to coconut oil. Symptoms may include irritation, itching, or swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat. Some people may also develop skin reactions, such as a rash or hives, around the mouth.
If symptoms appear, stop oil pulling immediately. allergy symptoms. Rinse your mouth with water and seek medical advice. If you are allergic to coconut, use oils such as sesame or sunflower.
Lipid (lipid) pneumonia
Accidentally inhaling the oil while stirring can irritate the lungs or cause infections such as lipid (or lipid) pneumonia. This is rare, but possible if the oil is inhaled rather than spit out. Even if it occurs, 40% of patients with lipid pneumonia have mild or no symptoms. It only becomes dangerous if the oil has a particularly high bacterial content.
To avoid this risk, sit upright while oil pulling to reduce the risk of inhaling the oil and use only a small amount at a time. Stir lightly and spit out. Lipid pneumonitis due to oil pulling is rare but can occur due to improper technique. Rest assured that stirring too vigorously can increase the risk of lipid pneumonia.
It’s also important to remember that oil pulling is not a replacement for dental care if you have an infection or periodontal disease (aka periodontitis). It is also important to maintain good oral habits, such as brushing your teeth, flossing, and regular dental checkups. So don’t throw away your toothbrush!
My Thoughts on the Dangers of Coconut Oil
When oil pulling is done properly, conditions such as lipoid pneumonia are extremely rare. Coconut oil pulling is a safe oral care method. However, this should be supplemented with regular use of high-quality (fluoride-free) toothpaste and mouthwash. However, people with coconut allergies or oral health problems should consult their dentist before trying it.
Interested in starting coconut oil pulling? Introducing brands that are good to use. You can also add some of these. healthy mouth mix For additional oral health benefits.
Have you tried using coconut oil for oil pulling? I think it’s dangerous. Are there any side effects? Please share below!
