Is oil pulling for teeth worth the risk?

Oil pulling for teeth and gums is an ancient practice that's becoming more popular. so it's worth knowing more about it.

In this article, we will cover the basics of oil pulling for teeth, the benefits it can offer and how to get started.

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What is oil pulling, and how does it work?

Oil pulling is a simple practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in the mouth for 15-20 minutes and spitting it out.

The idea is that the oil acts like a magnet, drawing out toxins and bacteria from te mouth and leaving you with a cleaner, healthier smile.

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Benefits of oil pulling for teeth and gums

Coconut oil is one of the most popular oils used for oil pulling (Image via Pexels/Dana Tendis)

There are a lot of benefits to oil pulling for teeth, including:

Say goodbye to plaque and tartar: The oil helps break down and remove the pesky little particles that can lead to build-up and decay over time.

Whiter teeth, no chemicals required: If you're looking for a natural way to whiten your teeth, coconut oil teeth whitening might just that. Oil pulling helps remove surface stains, leaving you with a brighter smile.

Fresher breath: By eliminating bacteria in your mouth, oil pulling can help freshen up your breath, keeping you feeling confident all day long.

Happier gums: Oil pulling can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the gums, lowering risk of gum disease and keeping your pearly whites looking healthy and happy.

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How to oil pull: Tips and tricks for getting started

The recommended time for oil pulling is 15-20 minutes (Image via Pexels/Mikhail Nilov)

Ready to try oil pulling for teeth for yourself? All you need is one tablespoon of coconut oil for oil pulling (or another type of oil if you prefer)

Follow these steps:

1. Put the oil in your mouth, and start swishing it around.
2. Try to keep it in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, but if that feels too long at first, you can start with a shorter time and work your way up.
3. Spit the oil out into a trash can (not the sink, as it could clog your drain).
4. Rinse your mouth with warm water, and brush your teeth as you normally would.

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Oil pulling side effects to watch out for

Oil pulling can help remove surface stains from teeth (Image via Pexels/Andrea Piacquaio)

While oil pulling for teeth is generally safe for most people, but there are a few things to be aware of:

• Don't swallow the oil. It can contain toxins and bacteria that you don't want hanging out in the stomach.
• Oil pulling side effects are rare, but they can include nausea, dizziness and upset stomach. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop oil pulling immediately, and consult with a dentist or doctor.
• If you have dental fillings or crowns, talk to your dentist before giving oil pulling a try. The oil could loosen them over time.

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Is oil pulling right for you?

Eventually, it's up to you to decide if oil pulling for teeth is right for you. However, if you're looking for a simple, natural way to boost your dental health and improve your smile, it's definitely worth a shot.

Just make sure to follow the aforementioned precautions we've outlined, and remember to listen to your body if it's telling you to take a break.