FAQs About Oil Pulling

When it comes to health fads, it is important to exercise caution because some could have serious consequences. However, some health fads might be beneficial to your health. Oil pulling is getting a lot of attention, but there is some question as to whether or not it is effective. If you are thinking of trying oil pulling, here is what you need to know. 

What Is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling involves swishing oil around in your mouth on a daily basis. The procedure purportedly helps to remove toxins from the body. In particular, it is supposed to help with reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth. 

There is some evidence that oil pulling works. It has shown to be effective in helping to prevent dental problems, such as gingivitis and bad breath. It can also be instrumental in reducing the chances of a person experiencing tooth decay and cavities.  

What Are the Limitations to Oil Pulling?

Although oil pulling can be beneficial to your dental health, there are some limits to what it can do. For instance, it cannot replace brushing and flossing. Swishing oil around in your mouth is not enough to scrape plaque and other debris from the surface of your teeth. You can use it as part of your dental care regimen, but not to replace it. 

Oil pulling is also not the cure-all that many believe it to be. The benefits of using the procedure are limited to your dental health. There is no evidence that it can help alleviate migraines, arthritis pain, or high blood sugar levels. It is important that you continue on the treatment plan your doctor has recommended for those conditions. 

Even though oil pulling does have some dental benefits, teeth whitening is not one of them. The alleged whitening effect that comes from oil pulling is the same result you would get from swishing water in your mouth for the same period of time. 

How Is Oil Pulling Done?

Oil pulling might be a simple procedure, but there are some factors to consider before doing it. For instance, the oil you choose plays a role in how effective the procedure is. Coconut and sesame oil are good choices because they both have anti-microbial properties. 

You also have to be careful with how long you swish the oil in your mouth. In the beginning, swishing the oil for a long time can trigger a gag reflex. Until you become more accustomed to the feel of the oil in your mouth, try to stick to only a few minutes daily. 

Talk to a local dentist, like Richard M Holmes DMD PA, before oil pulling. The dentist you see can address your concerns and provide you with additional information about the practice.

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