In your mouth, you will find a variety of bacteria.
Some of them are helpful and help you to digest your food and maintain healthy tissues. Many pathogenic bacteria (bacteria that cause disease) can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
It’s recommended to use fluoride mouthwash or alcohol mouthwash along with brushing and flossing to kill harmful bacteria. These chemicals are harsh and can damage your oral tissues. You can only keep them in your mouth a short time, so the mouthwash won’t reach the bacteria hiding in the nooks and crevices.
Many people have turned to an old technique of Ayurvedic medicine from India: oil pulling.
How to Clean your Mouth with Oil Pulling
The only thing you’ll need is the oil that you already have in your kitchen. Coconut oil is a popular choice for oil pulling due to its pleasant taste. However, sesame oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil are all also favorites.
- Measure one tablespoon of the vegetable oil you choose.
- You can swish the oil in your mouth between 15-20 minutes. You can do this as you get ready for work, or while doing other chores around the home.
- Do Not Swallow the Oil
- Pour the oil into the garbage (it could clog the drain if you pour it in the sink).
- Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth as normal.
You may initially find it strange to swish oil in your mouth continuously for a long period of time. You can start with just a few seconds and work up to 15-20 minutes. The longer you swish, the more benefit it appears to have.
Why Oil Pulling Works
The cell membrane of bacteria is made up of fat molecules.
When swishing oil in your mouth the lipids will bind to the lipids of the bacteria’s cell membranes , causing bacteria to “pull” into the oil .
The oil will also remove other food particles and plaque from your gums and teeth. Since you will be doing this over a long period of time, the oil can reach all those difficult-to-reach areas in your mouth that may accumulate plaque.
There are many benefits to
- Prevents plaque buildup
- Reduces bad breath
- Reduces gum inflammation
- Whitening the teeth
- Healthier gums
- It prevents dental caries (cavities)
- Reduces tooth pain
- Sore throat and dry throat
- Relieves chapped lips
- Strengthens jaw muscles
Other people report that they also experience benefits like reduced headaches, better sleep and digestion.
Oil-pulling is not intended to replace brushing or flossing. However, it can be a good alternative for mouthwashes containing alcohol.
Talk to your dentist about any concerns you may have regarding your dental health. They can give you more information on the best way to care for your teeth.
