Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in the mouth and spitting it out, is gaining popularity on social media. The practice is believed to promote dental hygiene and clean the mouth. On platforms like TikTok, many claim that oil pulling can do more than just clean the mouth — it can whiten teeth, reverse tooth decay, fight gum disease, and treat various oral health conditions. The practice has evolved from using simple edible oils like coconut or sesame oil to using single-use oil pulling packets with fancy flavors.
Oil pulling is rooted in the Ayurvedic medicine system and has been widely practiced in India and Southern Asia for centuries. The process involves taking a tablespoon of an edible oil, such as coconut, sesame, olive, or sunflower oil, swishing it around in the mouth like mouthwash, and then spitting it out. The idea behind oil pulling is that it helps clean the teeth, reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth, and prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. The practice can last anywhere from two to 20 minutes, depending on the individual technique.
While oil pulling has been used for centuries to boost oral health, scientific research on its benefits is limited and mixed. Some claim that oil pulling can reduce tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease, among other health benefits, but there is little robust, large-scale clinical evidence to support these claims. A recent meta-analysis found that oil pulling may help reduce salivary bacteria colony counts, but it has no significant effects on reducing plaque or gingivitis. Overall, there are no reliable scientific studies showing that oil pulling can whiten teeth, reduce cavities, or improve oral health and well-being.
Although oil pulling may help remove debris from around the gum tissues and teeth, other methods like brushing and flossing are more effective at reducing bacteria and debris in the mouth. Modern oral hygiene tools and techniques have evolved significantly in the past century, making oil pulling a supplementary practice rather than a replacement for brushing and flossing. While oil pulling is generally safe, some people may experience stomach upset or diarrhea if they swallow too much of the edible oil used during the practice.
It is typically recommended to brush your teeth after oil pulling to ensure thorough cleaning. Most recommendations suggest oil pulling one to two times a day as an additional oral hygiene practice. While the American Dental Association does not recommend oil pulling due to a lack of scientific evidence, dentists may not discourage the practice as long as it is not used as a substitute for proven dental hygiene practices like brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Ultimately, individual oral health needs vary, and it’s important to consult with a dentist to determine the best oral hygiene routine for your specific situation.