Oil pulling seems to be one of the biggest crazes to hit the market. Not sure what it is or never heard of it? Read on to find out more. Here at Camden Place, Preston, we urge all our patients to seek medical advice when planning on trying out this method. Oil pulling is not recommended as a substitute to regular oral hygiene practice.

Oil Pulling – What exactly is it?

Oil pulling is the procedure of rinsing/swilling your mouth with oil, pulling it through the teeth. As the oil washes past your teeth and gums it supposedly picks up the microbes present, acting as almost a magnet for the bacteria. It is an ancient, traditional folk remedy that has been used for centuries in Southern Asia and India.

The swilling should take place from anywhere between 5 minutes up to 20 minutes and the supposed benefits include:

• Whiten the teeth
• Reduce gingivitis
• Enhances oral health

Which oils are used?

Most people using oil pulling techniques use a tablespoon of edible sesame, sunflower, olive or coconut oil. Coconut oil is the preferred oil as 50% of the fat it contains is comprised of lauric acid.

What are the effects of oil pulling?

In the current reports on the health benefits there has been little medical evidence in the surrounding research which doesn’t have clear limitations. Scientific studies have not provided the clinical evidence to show that oil pulling does reduce cavities, whiten teeth or improve the mouths overall hygiene.

There have been some instances where users have experienced an irritated stomach and diarrhoea. Owing to this we recommend that patients visit their dentist in order to be fully aware of the best treatments available for them and their mouths.

At Camden Place, Preston, we offer dental hygienist services, teeth whitening treatments and propose regular check-ups for our patients in order to maintain their oral health. As stated, we recommend that patients do not use oil pulling as a substitute for their regular dental hygiene routines.

To arrange an appointment for your free consultation please contact us, or call 01772 556 050.