Learn from a dentist how the ancient Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling, or swishing high-quality edible oils in the mouth each day, contributes to oral health in surprising ways.
One of the most important aspects of personal hygiene is oral hygiene, which ensures good oral health. We all know the necessity of brushing our teeth twice daily, rinsing our mouths after every meal, and keeping our tongues clean. A few steps taken beyond these necessary actions go a long way in enhancing our oral health. One of the things that can help is oil Pulling. Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice of swishing oil in the mouth for a set time every day. The effect of oil pulling on our teeth is quite good; it kills the microorganisms in our mouth.
Oil pulling is relatively easy, but it does require a certain level of technique and consistency to reap its full benefits. It’s best done on an empty stomach in the morning to flush out the plaque and microorganisms that accumulate overnight. You can use any edible oil, such as olive, coconut, or sunflower, but it’s recommended to use high-quality and cold-pressed oils for maximum benefit of oil pulling on oral health. Many prefer coconut oil for its additional antimicrobial properties and
better taste.
How to do oil pulling?
- Measure the oil. Around 5ml or one teaspoon is enough.
- Start swishing the oil around your mouth. Initially, do it for around 5 minutes, and increase the time once you get comfortable with the practice. Anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes is ideal.
- While oil pulling for good oral health, swishing the oil thoroughly around the mouth and teeth is important. Allow the oil to pass between your teeth, ensuring it reaches all areas in the mouth, both front and back.
- Avoid swallowing the oil since it contains all the bacteria and toxins we want to eliminate. The oil might get thinner on swishing when it mixes with saliva, so spit it out.
- Brush and rinse post oil pulling.
- Do it regularly and consistently for maximum benefits.
- Also, remember that it is not a replacement for your regular oral care. Do not stop your routine practices for this. It’s an add-on!
Benefits of oil pulling on oral health
The effect of oil pulling on oral health is quite positive and productive. Regularly practicing oil pulling results in improved oral health and hygiene. Some of the benefits are:
- Kills Harmful Bacteria: Tiny food deposits, plaque, and saliva contain hundreds of bacteria that can cause tooth decay, bad breath, cavities, etc. Oil pulling reduces the bacteria in the mouth and saliva. Many dentists say oil pulling is a safer alternative to commercial mouthwashes. However, it must be noted that oil pulling is not selective and can remove both good and bad bacteria. The mouth hosts a diverse microbiome with beneficial bacteria that help maintain oral health by preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Therefore, while oil pulling can reduce harmful bacteria associated with plaque and bad breath, it may also reduce the number of beneficial bacteria.
- Reduces Foul Smell: Bacteria and germs accumulate on the tongue and between teeth gaps, leading to bad breath (called Halitosis). One of the effects of oil pulling on oral health is reducing foul smells and improving the quality of breath.
- Prevents Cavities: Whenever there is a layer of bacteria or food particles on our teeth, it leads to decay. The bacteria break the food particles and produce an acid that damages the tooth enamel. Oil pulling reduces bacteria and prevents cavities from forming.
- Prevent Gum Pockets:Gum pockets lead to inflammation or bleeding in the gums or, at times, loss of teeth. Natural gum pockets treatment such as oil pulling dilutes the bacteria and has healing properties to reduce inflammation. Additionally, regularly rinsing with saltwater can help to disinfect the mouth and reduce swelling. Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports gum health and can aid in healing gum pockets. Gum pockets should not be taken lightly, as they are a sign of poor oral health.
- Lower Inflammation: Another problem caused by bacteria in the mouth is Gingivitis, a condition causing redness, inflammation, and bleeding. Since coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, oil pulling with coconut oil helps lower inflammation.
- Reduce Plaque And Gingivitis: Using sunflower oil for oil pulling reduces plaque and plaque-induced Gingivitis.
- Detoxification: Oil works like a magnet for impurities and bacteria in the mouth, preventing them from multiplying or causing further damage. Thus, oil pulling for good oral health includes natural detoxification for the oral cavity. All toxins and microorganisms are removed.
- Moisturizing Effect On Dry Mouth:Many experience dry mouth, primarily upon waking up or after meals. Oil pulling keeps the mouth hydrated and fresh; reduced bacteria means less dryness.
- Strengthen Oral Muscles: Swishing automatically leads to jaw, tongue, and gums activity. Regular oil pulling strengthens the oral muscles and can give you a great jawline and smile naturally!
Conclusion
Ayurvedic practices are time-tested and use readily available natural resources. Oil pulling has some surprising benefits that go beyond oral hygiene. It is known to improve digestion and immunity. It can definitely be given a shot to improve dental hygiene. Try it out with different oils and use one that is most comfortable and beneficial to you. Remember, consistency is the key.
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