“Is oil pulling ever recommended by dentists?”
As a dentist do you recommend the practice of oil pulling that is becoming popular these days? Why or why not?
24 Answers
Oil pulling has become very popular nowadays. Although it causes no harm, its actual clinical benefit is still not scientifically documented or universally accepted. However, many people “feel” an improvement with using it, so I neither recommend for or against it. It is the patient’s choice.
Good luck,
Dr. Cyril Tahtadjian
Good luck,
Dr. Cyril Tahtadjian
As a dentist, I do not recommend oil pulling as there is no clinical evidence for its effectiveness.
It may well work, but there is no evidence that says it's easier or better than normal methods. So, no, I would not recommend anything other than normal methods. And if you feel that you are not able to keep the teeth and gums healthy like this, then see a hygienist and ask them to show you what's wrong with your technique.
There is not a considerable research which would support oil pulling. So, as a dentist, I will not recommend it unless there is a considerable evidence for support in future.
I am unaware of any studies to substantiate the effectiveness of swishing with oil. That said, many popular OTC mouthwashes contain essential oils which have been proven to be effective at reducing the numbers of oral bacteria. As far as detoxifying the body, in a healthy adult, the liver and kidneys do that for us.
By generation the level of general knowledge has improved dramatically along with techniques and methodology that circumvent the need for full mouth extraction as a result of neglect or decay or poor diet that affected the population many years ago. New methods have allowed Dennis to restore teeth and save them for the life of the patient as anything else is problematic in comparison, not to mention expensive. Full mouth extraction zar only recommended when a full course of radiation is elected as we cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment. This used to be done prophylactically in order to make the patient more comfortable during radiation treatment.
This is really just stupid if you don't mind me saying that. Supposedly bacterial cells stick to the oil and you spit them out with the oil. Why not brush your teeth and gently brush your tongue and then spit out these bacteria? Flossing removes the rest of the bacteria and you are done. A lot simpler than leaving oil in your mouth for 20 minutes.
Brent Corlazzoli
Dentist
Not as a first line of treatment. We don't know what the benefit long term, if it really works or is it just an antibacterial component of the coconut oil? or other essential oil. No long term studies to prove the effectiveness.
Personally, I do not recommend oil pulling. I have personally not seen any benefit of this technique nor have I seen any scientific articles supporting it. The more important thing would be to have propper and consistent oral hugeine techniques.
No. Oil pulling is not recommended. There are no valid studies that show it is practical or effective. There are plenty of proven and tested products on the market that are practical to use and effective in making your mouth healthier. Dont waste your time or your money on these fads when it comes to your health.
No. It does not appear to have any benefit. Plus who wants to have a bunch of yucky oil inhere mouth for 10-20 minutes!
There is no scientific evidence that oil pulling is beneficial for your teeth. Although it is not backed by science or approved through the American Dental Association as an acceptable oral health remedy, I do see benefits from use of natural oils, such as coconut. Please use at your own risk though as no long term studies have been conducted to show effects of continuous use.
This oral therapy is a type of Ayurvedic medicine [a traditional Indian system] that dates back more 3,000 years, It typically involves swishing approximately 1 tablespoon of oil -- typically coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil -- in your mouth for about 20 minutes and then spitting it out. Thereby "pulling" the oil between your teeth and gums. It is mainly suited to reduce the bacteria in the mouth most commonly causing gingivitis. While 20 minutes is a long time you may begin with just 5 minutes a day. Don't eliminate brushing and flossing. Oil pulling should never replace routine dental visits and regular home oral care. It doesn't reverse the effects of tooth decay, but it's a good homeopathic supplemental therapy.
"On the basis of lack of scientific evidence, the American Dental Association does not recommend oil pulling." I agree with this statement and recommend brushing twice a day and see your Dentist for whitening teeth.
There is no evidence based research to substantiate oil pulling's value vs. tried and true traditional methods.
Michelle B. Deutch
Dentist
I do not recommend oil pulling at this time as I am not very familiar with it. I do recommend natural whitening strips, mouthwash, and toothpaste made by Oral Essentials. They use natural ingredients and do not cause sensitivity.
Controversial. The jury is still out on this. But cannot think of any detrimental effects of oil pulling.
NO. This is a clinically unproven treatment.
Many dentists are not aware of the anti microbial effect of the Ayurvedic treatment and are susceptible to recommend it, so far it is not officially recognized and there are no studies which suggest clinical improving results. You can use it temporarily to reduce the inflammation of gums ALONGSIDE the normal treatments suggested by specialist/dentist. Doing it preventively will assure that your mouth bacteria will be used to it, so in the future when you will need it to work it will have no effect, the same as antibiotics. Handle it with care, only when it is really needed. Ask a homeopathic doctor in case of uncertainty.
To be honest with you I don’t know the science behind it but I’ve seen a couple of very good results with oil pulling that I’ve started to recommending it to my patients! One of them does it religiously, twice a day, a teaspoon of coconut oil for 20 minutes! The result is amazing! I see her every three months for her dental cleaning and I’ve seen a big improvement of her gums bleeding.
Please be aware that if you have a tartar build up that is irritating your gums, oil pulling does not work! You should visit your dentist at least every 6 months, do a very good flossing and brushing at least twice a day then oil pulling can help your gums getting stronger! So it doesn’t act as brushing or flossing!
Please be aware that if you have a tartar build up that is irritating your gums, oil pulling does not work! You should visit your dentist at least every 6 months, do a very good flossing and brushing at least twice a day then oil pulling can help your gums getting stronger! So it doesn’t act as brushing or flossing!
Not recommended because it does not work orally and could be harmful. Just my opinion based on reviewed research and personal observation.
MDS, DDS
MDS, DDS
Amy G. David
Dentist
I definitely think it does not hurt anything. It can have a small antibacterial effect, and can help with gingivitis. It however will not work miracles...and will not stop the detrimental effects of having large cavities or periodontitis that is undiagnosed or untreated. Having a regular dental check-up is still critical to maintaining your oral health.
I am a firm advocate of oil pulling with coconut oil.
Typically oil pulling requires 20 minutes of swishing oil. Most daily dental routines take no longer than 4-5 minutes when including brushing flossing and gargling. There have been studies showing that oil pulling was no more effective than normal methods of oral hygiene. To me, whatever motivates you to keep your smile perfect works for me!
