Coconut oil pulling: A natural way to boost oral health
What's the story
Coconut oil pulling is an age-old tradition that has resurfaced as a trendy and natural method to boost oral health and whiten teeth.
Just swish a tablespoon of coconut oil around your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes each day.
It draws out toxins, resulting in fresher breath, less inflammation, and a whiter smile.
Basics
Understanding oil pulling
Oil pulling originates from Ayurvedic medicine (traditional Indian medicine) and has a history of over 3,000 years.
The science behind it is pretty simple: oil is great at cutting through plaque and yanking out toxins without harming your teeth or gums.
Coconut oil is a popular choice because it tastes way better and has a high amount of lauric acid, which is known for its antimicrobial abilities.
Oral care
Benefits for oral health
Daily coconut oil pulling greatly reduces the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth, especially Streptococcus mutans, a major culprit in tooth decay.
Research indicates that after just one week, study participants who used oil pulling exhibited a 20% decrease in oral bacteria compared to those who didn't.
By reducing these harmful bacteria, you can help prevent cavities and gingivitis.
Bright smile
Whitening effect on teeth
A key benefit of coconut oil pulling that many people seek is its ability to naturally whiten teeth.
While it doesn't bleach teeth like chemical whiteners, many users report a noticeable difference in the brightness of their smile after consistent use.
This is attributed to the oil's ability to pull stains from the surface of teeth.
Technique
How to do it right
To reap the benefits, start your day by swishing one tablespoon of virgin coconut oil in your mouth before eating or drinking anything.
Do this for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the oil reaches all areas of your mouth.
Spit the oil into a trash can (not your sink to avoid clogging the drain), rinse with warm water, and then brush your teeth as you normally would.
Consistency
Incorporating into daily routine
By incorporating coconut oil pulling into your regular oral hygiene routine, you can experience significant long-term benefits such as fresher breath, decreased dental plaque, and a naturally brighter smile.
Experts advise doing it three to four times a week for best results.
And, as with any routine, consistency is key! Many people find that making it a part of their morning ritual makes it easier to remember and stick to.