Many diseases begin in the mouth, not only increasing your risk of oral disease but also illness in general. Is it said that our oral hygiene gives us a good idea of our overall health. Oil pulling is a simple, yet effective way to improve your oral health.
What is oil pulling?
Oil pulling is the act of taking a tablespoon of oil (typically coconut) and swishing it around in your mouth for a number of minutes. The oil extracts bacteria, toxics, and other nasties that you’d otherwise be swallowing. After, the oil is spit into a trashcan (never the sink!), and you’d brush like you normally would.
Dental professor, Vagish Kumar L. Shanbhag, recommends swishing first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, and for at least 20 minutes.
Oil pulling is not an alternative to brushing, but it is said to have some wondering benefits including fresh breath, reduction of plaque buildup, bleeding gums, and cavities.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
Reduce Bacteria
The main reasons to start oil pulling is to reduce bacteria in the mouth (and body). Bacteria is what leads to bad breath, plaque, and tooth decay says Forestwood Dental.
The reason this works is because the oil attracts to the lipids of the bacteria, drawing it out of your mouth and into the oil says Shanbhag.
Support Healthy Gums
Gingivitis is a gum disease that causes irritated and swollen gums. Less bad bacteria in your mouth allows for your gums to heal and reduce (or eliminate) bleeding.
Prevents Plaque and Cavities
Dr. Jocelynn Vida reports oil pulling can prevent the buildup of plaque which in turn causes cavities. In this study, oil pulling was shown to significantly reduce plaque and gingivitis in 10 subjects over 45 days. The overall results from this study reduced plaque and gingivitis. Scores were 0.81+-_0.41 (p<0.01) and 0.39+_0.17 (p<0.01) respectively.
Tips and Tricks
I am going to be honest, putting a tablespoon of oil in your mouth is a pretty weird feeling, at least initially. It might take a few days or even weeks to adjust to.
The 20-minute time frame might seem intimidating. Personally, I would suggest you take baby steps. For me, starting with just 5 minutes, then 10 and working up, made it an easier transition. Now, I can easily pull for over 20 minutes without even realizing it. Throw on your favorite podcast or pick up a juicy book. The time will fly by.
Based on my research the best oil for pulling is coconut, sesame, and sunflower. With coconut oil being the most studied.
Last thing, never spit oil into the sink. Your sink drain will eventually clog and result in a hefty plumbing bill down the road.
Oil pulling is a cost-effective way to increase your overall oral health which in turn keeps you healthier decreasing your risk of disease.
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