I have been oil pulling with coconut oil for years. I read about the benefits of oil pulling a long time ago and how it reverses tooth decay to help remineralize And white teeth. I have definitely noticed less plaque and better dental health since I started! Recently, I came across some articles online asking if oil pulling can be dangerous.
Here’s what I learned about oil pulling and its pros and cons for overall health.
What is coconut oil pulling?
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that comes to us from Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional Indian medicine. It has long been used to promote oral hygiene and overall health by removing harmful bacteria and reducing the accumulation of plaque.
The procedure involves swishing a tablespoon of oil on an empty stomach for 5 to 20 minutes and then spitting it out. The term “oil pulling” comes from the fact that it pulls and pushes oil through the teeth to create a washing machine-like action. Oil pulling works by helping to break up plaque while brushing.
Traditional Indian oral hygiene commonly uses sesame oil. However, any type of oil can work, as long as it is cold-pressed cooking oil. Olive oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil are all popular choices. Coconut oil can taste great!
Coconut oil can also be very effective. It has a high “saponification index”, which means it can react with saliva to form a type of soap. The natural suds help to reduce the plaque and clean the teeth.
Benefits of oil pulling
Why do people practice? Coconut oil pulling? Oil pulling has many oral health benefits. Some of these include reducing gum inflammation and reducing tooth decay. It can even lead to whiter teeth and relieve halitosis (bad breath).
Oil absorption improves gum health, helps people Avoid gum disease. In the year In a 2009 study, oil pulling helped improve plaque-induced gingivitis. That’s important because gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious gum disease that can lead to tooth and bone loss.
Oil pulling may be your ticket to solving chronic bad breath. A study of 60 hostel students compared oil pulling with the prescribed chlorhexidine mouthwash. The oil pulling was just as effective as the prescription in reducing bad breath.
Coconut oil may be better than other oils in supporting dental hygiene because of its lauric acid. Lauric acid is an antimicrobial compound that kills harmful bacteria associated with tooth decay. Streptococcus dead.
What do dentists say?
The American Dental Association (ADA) does not recommend oil pulling because of scientific evidence that it improves dental health. Oil pulling helps remove debris from teeth, which is great, they say. But they believe the benefits of oil pulling are subjective or come from limited research.
On the other hand, some studies show promise. For example, some studies show that oil pulling can help control gum disease and bad breath. The scientific evidence is growing – it’s not there yet.
Critics of the ADA argue that their controversial recommendations b Fluoride treatments And mercury fillings don’t really support the patient’s health. But as scientific research on oil pulling accumulates, its effectiveness can be widely accepted.
Side effects of coconut oil pulling
While generally safe, there are some potential side effects of oil pulling with coconut oil. Thankfully, the risks of ingesting coconut oil are rarely serious.
Constipation
The taste and texture of coconut oil can make some people feel nauseous. Sometimes, it’s because you’ve accidentally swallowed some. However, starting with too much oil can cause nausea. To avoid nausea, start with just 1 teaspoon and gradually work up to one tablespoon. Start with 5 to 10 minutes, not 15 to 20.
Jaw pain
Prolonged swimming (10 to 20 minutes) can cause fatigue or pain in the jaw muscles, especially for those who grind their teeth or They have TMJ problems. Again, start with 5 to 10 minutes of swimming, not 15 to 20, and avoid grinding your teeth or swimming too vigorously. Over time, your jaw muscles will strengthen and build endurance.
Allergic reactions
Although unusual, some people It could be an allergy to coconut oil. Symptoms may include irritation, itching, or swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat. Some people may develop skin reactions such as a rash or rash around the mouth.
If you experience any, stop oil pulling immediately Allergy symptoms. Rinse mouth with water and seek medical attention. If you are allergic to coconut, use an oil like sesame or sunflower.
Lipoid (Lipid) Pneumonia
Accidental inhalation of the oil while swimming can irritate the lungs or lead to an infection such as lipoid (or lipid) pneumonia. This is very rare, but possible if the oil is inhaled rather than spit out. Although this can happen, 40% of people with lipoid pneumonia have mild or no symptoms. It is only dangerous if the oil is particularly rich in bacteria.
To avoid this risk, sit upright when oil pulling and use only small amounts to reduce the risk of inhaling the oil. Swim slowly and then spit. Lipid pneumonia from oil pulling is rare but can occur with improper technique. Take it easy as vigorous swimming can increase the risk of lipoid pneumonia.
It’s important to note that oil pulling is not a substitute for dental care if you have an infection or periodontal disease (aka periodontitis). Maintaining good oral habits is also important. Like brushingGoing to your regular dental checkups. So don’t throw away your toothbrush!
My thoughts on the dangers of coconut oil pulling
Conditions such as lipoid pneumonia are rare if oil pulling is done correctly. Coconut oil pulling is a safe oral care practice. But it needs to 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.
Want to start pulling coconut oil? Good branding here. to use. You can also add some of these. A healthy oral mixture For additional oral health benefits.
Have you used coconut oil for oil pulling? Do you think it is dangerous, and have you experienced any side effects? Share with us below!
