Oil pulling: Is it a fad?

Talk to your dentist to find out more

by Dr. Eric Eby

Oil pulling has become a very popular discussion over the past few years with dental patients. Many believe that oil pulling was created recently by our progressive culture, but it dates back 3000 years. This oral therapy was practiced within the Ayurvedic medicine model which is the world’s oldest holistic healing system.

This is not a replacement for the more traditional oral hygiene of proper brushing and flossing, and seeing your dental profes

What is the practice?

A twenty-minute or longer gentle wash/swish of your mouth with oil, preferably coconut but sesame or sunflower oil can be used.

There has been some real scientific research that oil pulling does have a positive effect on your oral health unlike other homeopathic remedies. Recent studies show that oil pulling is effective in fighting gingivitis and bad breath.

How?

A single cell is covered with a “fatty” membrane, so when the bacterial wall meets the oil they naturally adhere to each other, thus removing the bacteria.

The coconut oil is most effective because it also contains lauric acid which is well known for its antibacterial effects. More recent studies show that coconut oil may be beneficial in Most bacteria in the mouth consist preventing decay.

Techniques may vary slightly but the concept is the same.

Here are some tips.

• Don’t use too much oil, just enough to coat your mouth and teeth (approximately a tablespoon).

• Start with five minutes a day and work up to 20. If your jaw muscles get sore slow down.

• Gentle swishing is all that is necessary, slowly pushing oil between your teeth.

The final tip: do not swallow, and spit the oil in the trash so you don’t plug your drain.

Of course, this is not a replacement for the more traditional oral hygiene of proper brushing and flossing and seeing your dental professional on a regular routine.

by Dr. Eric Eby, EBY DENTAL CARE • OKEMOS, MI 48864 (517)349-9860 • WWW.DREBY.COM