“Can oil pulling prevent tooth infections?”

Oil pulling is not likely to have any more beneficial effects than rinsing your mouth with water. The oil pulling simply as a mechanical aid to removing bacteria and debris. Having said that - it is not likely to harm you either.

No.

David M. Kaffey, DDS

I know that Coconut Oil has anti fungal and anti bacterial properties, Oregano Oil has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, but there have been no clinical studies that I know of that verify that they could prevent tooth infections. The issue is two-fold not only does the bacteria need to be controlled but also the teeth need extra minerals to repair them. Research has shown that tooth decay can be reversed sometimes if it is in the initial stages and has not penetrated the outer enamel layer fully. Once it gets into the next layer there is nothing I have seen or found that can prevent further spread of the disease process than actually doing a filling.

There is no substantiated evidence that oil pulling provides any benefits to your oral health.