From the Guidelines
Oil pulling has limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for teeth health, and it should not replace standard dental care, which includes regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and professional dental cleanings 1. The practice of oil pulling involves swishing oil in the mouth for 15-20 minutes before spitting it out, and some studies suggest it may help reduce plaque and gingivitis when used as a supplement to regular brushing and flossing. However, most dental professionals consider the claims of oil pulling's effectiveness to be exaggerated, and any benefits likely come from the mechanical action of swishing that helps dislodge food particles and some bacteria. Some studies have investigated the use of polyherbal products, including Arimedadi oil, which has been shown to have comparable effects to chlorhexidine in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation 1. Key points to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of oil pulling include:
- The mechanical action of swishing oil may help dislodge food particles and some bacteria
- Some oils, such as coconut oil, may have antibacterial properties that provide some benefit
- Oil pulling should not replace standard dental care, which includes regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and professional dental cleanings
- The use of polyherbal products, such as Arimedadi oil, may have comparable effects to chlorhexidine in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation If you want to try oil pulling, use 1-2 teaspoons of oil, swish gently for up to 20 minutes, spit the oil into the trash (not sink as it may clog pipes), rinse with warm water, and then brush and floss as normal. It is essential to prioritize standard dental care, including regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and professional dental cleanings, as these practices have been proven to be safe and effective in preventing and controlling dental caries 1.
From the Research
Therapeutic Effects of Oil Pulling on Dental Health
- Oil pulling has been shown to have a therapeutic effect on dental health, with studies demonstrating its ability to reduce Streptococcus mutans count in plaque and saliva 2, salivary bacterial colony count 3, 4, and plaque index score 3, 5.
- The use of oil pulling with sesame oil and coconut oil has been found to be effective in improving oral health and dental hygiene 2, 3, 5.
- Oil pulling can be used as an effective preventive adjunct in maintaining and improving oral health, particularly in lower socioeconomic groups and rural communities with limited access to healthcare services and dental products 6.
Mechanism of Action and Efficacy
- The mechanism of action of oil pulling is thought to involve the removal of bacteria and other microorganisms from the oral cavity, which can help to prevent dental diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal disease 2, 6.
- Studies have shown that oil pulling can be as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing S. mutans count and plaque index score 2, 5.
- However, the quality of studies on oil pulling is mixed, and further research is needed to fully demonstrate its efficacy and safety 3, 4.
Comparison with Other Oral Health Interventions
- Oil pulling has been compared to other oral health interventions, such as chlorhexidine mouthwash, and has been found to be equally effective in reducing S. mutans count and plaque index score 2, 5.
- However, more research is needed to compare the efficacy of oil pulling with other oral health interventions, such as fluoride toothpaste and dental flossing 4.
Future Directions
- Further studies are needed to fully demonstrate the efficacy and safety of oil pulling as a therapeutic intervention for dental health 3, 4.
- Future studies should be well-designed and rigorously executed to provide high-quality evidence on the effects of oil pulling on oral health and dental hygiene 4.