You must have heard about oil pulling – that’s swishing oil around the mouth, like it were mouthwash. This 15 to 20-minute remedy is said to be an Ayurveda practice in India some 3000 years ago, aimed at keeping breath fresh and clean, eliminating bacteria and whitening teeth. Ayurveda texts claimed that oil pulling is not just for dental issues, but can cure over 30 systemic diseases as well.
Washing with a tablespoon of oil in the mouth might be uncomfortable for most people for the taste and texture of oil is novel. It can take some getting used to, keeping in mind that the benefits outweigh the negatives. Some people like sesame oil, others find coconut oil more pleasant. Done first thing in the morning, oil is swished around the mouth, the jaws moving up and down as though chewing, but what’s important is the oil be kept moving around. It collects bacteria this way, so you don’t swallow the oil. Spit it out, rinse with water, and proceed to brushing and flossing.
Oil pulling is a natural cleansing process. Oil is capable of cutting through plaque and removing toxins. Plaque is said to be fat-soluble. Lipids in the oils pull out or absorbs toxins from the saliva. The mix usually ends up turning thick, viscous and white. Once it reaches this consistency, it is spit out before the toxins are reabsorbed. Some studies have shown that teeth, gums and jaws are strengthened; the process also prevents bad breath, cavities, gingivitis, bleeding gums, and dryness of the mouth.
People who have tried it say it is an oral health treatment, but when practiced regularly, the process benefits the rest of the body as well. They say oil pulling can relieve migraines, correct hormone imbalance, reduce inflammation, allergies, eczemas, and improve vision. It can also treat digestive issues, support normal kidney function, and detoxify the body of heavy metals.
While oil pulling benefits are proved by testimonials and some studies, there are quarters who say that the remedy may be beneficial to oral health, but further research may be needed to make claims that it can also treat medical conditions.
Fact From Fiction In Bellingham
Why don’t you ask us, your Bellingham professionals, about oil pulling? Know more about it and separate what’s true and what’s not. We all work for everyone’s oral health here at Tetrick Family Dentistry in Bellingham.