Oil Pulling Benefits For a Healthier Mouth

Oil pulling is an age-old regimen rooted in ancient Ayurvedic medicine. It’s now a home remedy that uses natural substances to clean and detoxify the mouth and teeth. But is there any evidence behind this practice and how do you do it?

Oil pulling, along with other elements of dental hygiene and regular dental visits, may help you avoid tooth decay and gum disease. It can also help whiten teeth naturally.

What is Oil Pulling?

The short answer is that it’s a process of swishing oil (usually sesame, sunflower oil, olive oil, or coconut oil) in the mouth for up to 20 minutes. The oil is then spat into the trash. The purpose is to improve oral health, and the best time to do it is on an empty stomach first thing in the morning.

The basic idea is that swishing oil in the mouth for a short time each day helps pull out the bad stuff and improve oral health. It’s similar to oil cleansing for the skin in that the principle of “like dissolves like” applies. The oil cuts through plaque buildup and removes toxins without damaging the teeth or gums.

The ancient practice of oil pulling (originally called gandusha) started in India thousands of years ago. But it wasn’t really used in the United States until recently.

It was first given the name “oil pulling” in the United States in the early 1990s. A medical doctor, Dr. F. Karach, used it successfully in his medical practice. He claimed it could potentially cure several diseases, including oral ones. The word spread quickly!

Benefits of Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an oral care practice with lots of anecdotal support but a lack of extensive scientific studies. Although there are some… (See the references below). Most sources agree that oil pulling is safe but debate its effectiveness.

Here are some of the reported benefits:

Whiter teeth
Improvement of dry mouth (“xerostomia”)
Fewer cavities and cases of gingivitis
Reduced plaque
Stronger teeth and gums
Improved periodontal disease
Better breath (less “morning breath”)
Improvement in jaw pain (less TMJ pain)
Relief from sinus issues
Fewer headaches
Better skin (less acne, eczema, and psoriasis)
Improved hormone balance
Less arthritis pain
And more…

A 2022 meta-analysis found oil pulling could help lower overall bacteria count in the mouth, improving oral health.

That confirms what was highlighted the year before in 2021: When oil pulling, surface cells on the inside of the mouth are covered with oil droplets. There’s also more saliva production. The result is that the oil-saliva mix captures the bacteria during oil pulling, making it easy to remove by spitting it out.

A 2021 study showed coconut and sesame oil both reduced plaque and discoloration.

My Experience With Oil Pulling

Though I’ve done this for a few years, my only personal experience is with increased oral health (no plaque) and less sensitive (and whiter!) teeth. Although I haven’t had personal experience with this, I’ve heard experts explain how bacteria and infections can enter the blood through the mouth. It does make sense that addressing these infections could impact other parts of the body.

At the very least, oil pulling can be beneficial. It should have no downside if it’s done correctly with a high-quality oil. The oil should be good enough quality to eat. Oil pulling is a very inexpensive therapy that could potentially benefit oral health. For those reasons, I see no downside to trying it and I’ve used it myself for several years.

Although more scientific research is needed, I’ve noticed the benefits personally. Dozens of Wellness Mama readers also swear by its effectiveness.

How to Oil Pull

The concept is simple: a person swishes a couple of teaspoons of fruit or seed-based oil (coconut, sesame, or olive) in the mouth for 20 minutes. They then spit it out and rinse well. It’s best to oil pull in the morning, before eating or drinking anything. However, it can be done before each meal, if needed, for more severe infections or dental problems.

Virgin coconut oil is an excellent option because its lauric acid makes it naturally antibacterial. It has a milder taste than other oils. Anyone with an allergy to coconut oil or coconut products should avoid using coconut oil in this way. Ayurvedic Medicine traditionally used sesame oil, just make sure it’s organic.

You can also add some mouth healthy essential oils to the coconut or sesame oil for extra benefits. The company I co-founded, Wellnesse, has a Balanced Mouth Blend that’s great for this. It features anti-microbial essential oils that help improve the oral microbiome.

Oil Pulling Instructions

Put 1-2 teaspoons of oil into your mouth. The oil traditionally used in Ayurveda is organic sesame oil. Sesame is also the oil that’s been the most studied for use in oil pulling. Another option is organic coconut oil pulling. Whichever oil you choose, place 1-2 teaspoons in the mouth. I also pour a few drops of Brushing Blend (naturally antibacterial) into the mix. You can also plan ahead and make these easy coconut oil chews.
Swish for 20 minutes. Timing is key. Dr. Bruce Fife is the author of a book on oil pulling called Oil Pulling Therapy. He says 20 minutes is long enough to break through plaque and bacteria but not so long that the body starts re-absorbing the toxins and bacteria. The oil will get thicker and milky as it mixes with saliva during this time. It should be creamy-white by the time it’s spat out. It will also double in volume during this time due to saliva. At first, it can be challenging to complete the full 20 minutes. I didn’t stress over it if I could only swish for 5-10 minutes when I first started.
Spit oil into the trash can. Especially if you have a septic system as I do. Don’t spit into the sink, as the oil may eventually clog the pipes. Don’t swallow the oil, either! Hopefully, it’s now full of bacteria, toxins, and pus that are being removed from the mouth!
Rinse well with warm water. Warm water seems to clean the mouth better (in my opinion). I swish a few times with warm water to get any remaining oil out of my mouth. Some sources recommend gargling with warm salt water.
Brush well. I prefer to brush with Wellnesse whitening toothpaste to ensure no bacteria remain.

Is Oil Pulling Safe?

Thankfully, this is one point all sources seem to agree on! Some sources claim that oil pulling doesn’t have the benefits often attributed to it or doesn’t actually detoxify the mouth. Still, all of them agree it shouldn’t cause side effects.

The oils typically used for oil pulling are edible oils that are considered healthy when eaten. So, they aren’t problematic when swished in the mouth. The only potential danger is swallowing the oil after it’s absorbed bacteria or toxins from the mouth. Ick. You don’t want to do that!

I asked my dentist for his thoughts on oil pulling. He shared that while we need more research to know for certain, it could be an effective and safe alternative to mouthwash.

Prescription mouthwashes contain a chemical called chlorhexidine, which may be harmful. Studies show that some of these oils used in oil pulling were just as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash. Another option is to make this herbal homemade mouthwash.

Which Oil is Best For Oil Pulling?

The oil you use for oil pulling depends on your goals. If the goal is teeth whitening, I’ve found coconut oil to be the most effective (especially when combined with this unusual remedy). According to the British Dental Journal (BDJ), coconut oil is also slightly more effective at removing certain bacteria from the mouth. These include Streptococcus mutans bacteria known for causing dental caries.

Sesame oil is the oil recommended by most sources (mostly because it was one of the more widely available oils when the practice began). It’s also the most well-studied and considered safe for those not allergic to sesame seeds. Sometimes olive oil is used, but it’s not as well studied.

The main thing is to avoid using high Omega-6 or chemically created oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, soybean oil, corn oil, etc.

Who Can Do Oil Pulling?

Not every natural remedy is safe for everyone. Here’s the evidence on who can (and can’t) safely use oil pulling.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

I’ve done oil pulling during pregnancy, but I was also already doing it regularly before I got pregnant. I asked a midwife, and she said it’s generally considered safe for pregnant women, especially after the first trimester.

Oral hygiene is especially critical during pregnancy due to the risks of infection. So, I’ve always been glad to have an extra way to keep my teeth and gums healthy while pregnant. I consider it the same as tooth brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash. (This is purely anecdotal, but I haven’t had a cavity, even while pregnant since I started oil pulling and following my oral health routine).

A 2016 randomized controlled trial looked at oil pulling in pregnant women. The researchers found it was just as effective as chlorhexidine at fighting bad breath. This study didn’t raise any concerns about oil pulling during pregnancy.

Oil pulling is generally considered safe while nursing, but check with a dentist or doctor to be safe. As with anything, check with a doctor or midwife before starting oil pulling, especially if pregnant.

Children

Several practitioners I’ve asked about this assured me that oil pulling is safe for kids once they’re old enough not to swallow the oil.

Those With Dental Issues

I got the okay to do this from my dentist and doctor with several (non-amalgam) fillings in my mouth. But I’d recommend checking with a doctor or dentist to be sure, especially if you have any metal fillings, crowns, or dental problems.

Note: Some people may notice a detox reaction for the first few days of using oil pulling. This can include issues like mild congestion, headache, mucous drainage, or other effects. I personally didn’t notice these effects, but I’ve read cases of others who did.

FAQs About Oil Pulling

There are several questions that repeatedly come up about oil pulling, so I’ve compiled them here along with the most common answers. I also included any research I could find:

Does Oil Pulling Help Remineralize Teeth?

It may, but more research is needed. I talked about my personal experience remineralizing my teeth here. I used oil pulling as part of this protocol, but I suspect the benefit may have come from certain oils combatting the bacteria that cause tooth decay rather than actual mineral support for the tooth.

Coconut and sesame oils aren’t excellent sources of the minerals that teeth need. So using them in the mouth may not be a very effective way to provide minerals for restoring teeth. Since we’re constantly replenishing the minerals in our teeth and enamel through saliva, it seems more important to ensure we’re getting enough minerals internally. Then they’re available in saliva.

Can People With Fillings Try Oil Pulling?

Dentist Lisa Matriste warns against oil pulling with amalgam (mercury) fillings. Mercury is lipophilic, meaning it’s attracted to fats.

“Oil pulling will pull mercury out of the fillings which will then be absorbed into your tissues, inadvertently poisoning your body with mercury at a faster rate.”

She goes on to recommend having any mercury fillings removed before oil pulling.

That said, I couldn’t find any scientific research on the safety of oil pulling with fillings. There’s some anecdotal evidence it could loosen them. Check with your dentist to see if oil pulling would be appropriate for your particular dental situation.

Does Oil Pulling Help Bad Breath?

There’s one benefit of oil pulling all sources seem to agree on: better breath. Likely because of its ability to help wipe out harmful bacteria in the mouth. Evidence shows oil pulling can help improve breathing and reduce plaque, which combats bad breath.

Can I Swallow the Oil? Or Where Should I Spit?

Again, please don’t swallow the oil after oil pulling. It may contain bacteria, dead skin, or other residues from the mouth and the whole purpose is to remove these toxins from the body. It’s also important not to spit this in the sink, shower, or toilet, as it may solidify and clog the drain. This especially pertains to coconut oil, which hardens as it cools.

I keep an old supplement container at my sink and spit the oil in it each morning. Then I throw it away when filled.

Do I Have to Swish for 20 Minutes?

I found it difficult to swish for 20 minutes when I first started. Though 20 minutes is the recommended timeframe, it isn’t a hard and fast rule. Neither is the recommendation to use a full tablespoon of oil. If you can only use a teaspoon and swish for 5 minutes, start with that and don’t stress about it.

Adding a drop of essential oil may also help with the taste and make oil pulling easier. Just make sure any oil you use is safe to use internally.

I also find the best time to oil pull is in the shower since this is the only time I’m not talking to my kids or doing something else. I don’t usually shower for 20 minutes, but this at least gets me part of the way through the time.

Does Oil Pulling Work?

My only personal experience is the oral health benefits, and I continue doing it for this reason. But there’s evidence that it might help with other conditions as well. The most comprehensive resource I’ve seen on the topic is the book “Oil Pulling Therapy” by Dr. Bruce Fife.

The American Dental Association (ADA) doesn’t, at this point, recommend oil pulling. Their recommended therapy against cavities is still fluoride. Learn how terrible fluoride is for your body by reading this article.

Although the research is limited, there are some scientific studies supporting the benefits of oil pulling. This includes its benefits for specific types of oral bacteria, dental caries, plaque/gingivitis, and oral micro-organisms. Because dental hygiene has a far-reaching impact throughout the body, oil pulling may improve overall health.

Have you ever tried oil pulling? What was your experience? Share below!

This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Lin, who is a Board accredited dentist trained at the University of Sydney. With a background in biomedical science, he is a passionate whole-health advocate, focusing on the link between nutrition and dental health. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor or dentist.

Peedikayil, F. C., Sreenivasan, P., & Narayanan, A. (2015). Effect of coconut oil in plaque related gingivitis — A preliminary report. Nigerian medical journal: journal of the Nigeria Medical Association, 56(2), 143–147.
Kapoor, U., Sharma, G., Juneja, M., & Nagpal, A. (2016). Halitosis: Current concepts on etiology, diagnosis and management. European journal of dentistry, 10(2), 292–300. https://doi.org/10.4103/1305-7456.178294
Asokan, S., Rathan, J., Muthu, M. S., et al. (2008). Effect of oil pulling on Streptococcus mutans count in plaque and saliva using Dentocult SM Strip mutans test: a randomized, controlled, triple-blind study. Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, 26(1), 12–17.
Durai Anand, T. Pothiraj, C., Gopinath, R. M., et al. (2008). Effect of oil-pulling on dental caries causing bacteria (PDF). African Journal of Microbiology Research, 2(3), 63-66.
HV Amith, Anil V Ankola, L Nagesh. Effect of Oil Pulling on Plaque and Gingivitis. Journal of Oral Health & Community Dentistry: 2007; 1(1):Pages 12-18.
Asokan, S., Emmadi, P., & Chamundeswari, R. (2009). Effect of oil pulling on plaque induced gingivitis: A randomized, controlled, triple-blind study. Indian Journal of Dental Research, 20, 47-51.
Thaweboon, S., Nakaparksin, J., & Thaweboon, B. (2011). Effect of oil-pulling on oral microorganisms in biofilm models. Asia Journal of Public Health, 2(2), 62-66.
Peedikayil, F. C., Sreenivasan, P., & Narayanan, A. (2015). Effect of coconut oil in plaque related gingivitis – A preliminary report. Nigerian medical journal: journal of the Nigeria Medical Association, 56(2), 143–147.
Ludwar, L., Mannel, H., Hamacher, S., Noack, M. J., & Barbe, A. G. (2022). Oil pulling to relieve medication-induced xerostomia: A randomized, single-blind, crossover trial. Oral diseases, 28(2), 373–383.
Peng, T. R., Cheng, H. Y., Wu, T. W., & Ng, B. K. (2022). Effectiveness of Oil Pulling for Improving Oral Health: A Meta-Analysis – PMC. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 10(10), 1991.
Sezgin, Y., Memis Ozgul, B., Mara?, M. E., & Alptekin, N. O. (2021). Comparison of the plaque regrowth inhibition effects of oil pulling therapy with sesame oil or coconut oil using 4-day plaque regrowth study model: A randomized crossover clinical trial. International journal of dental hygiene, 10.1111/idh.12532. Advance online publication.
Griessl, T., Zechel-Gran, S., Olejniczak, S., Weigel, M., Hain, T., & Domann, E. (2021). High-resolution taxonomic examination of the oral microbiome after oil pulling with standardized sunflower seed oil and healthy participants: a pilot study. Clinical oral investigations, 25(5), 2689–2703.
Sheikh, F. S., & Iyer, R. R. (2016). The effect of oil pulling with rice bran oil, sesame oil, and chlorhexidine mouth rinsing on halitosis among pregnant women: A comparative interventional study. Indian journal of dental research : official publication of Indian Society for Dental Research, 27(5), 508–512. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-9290.195638
Sezgin, Y., Memis Ozgul, B., Mara?, M. E., & Alptekin, N. O. (2021). Comparison of the plaque regrowth inhibition effects of oil pulling therapy with sesame oil or coconut oil using 4-day plaque regrowth study model: A randomized crossover clinical trial. International journal of dental hygiene, 10.1111/idh.12532. Advance online publication.
Matriste, L. (2017, October 29). The truth about oil pulling: A dental perspective. Laser + Holistic Dental.

Sources

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About Katie Wells

Katie Wells, CTNC, MCHC, Founder of Wellness Mama and Co-founder of Wellnesse, has a background in research, journalism, and nutrition. As a mom of six, she turned to research and took health into her own hands to find answers to her health problems. WellnessMama.com is the culmination of her thousands of hours of research and all posts are medically reviewed and verified by the Wellness Mama research team. Katie is also the author of the bestselling books The Wellness Mama Cookbook and The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox.

Comments

735 responses to “Oil Pulling Benefits For a Healthier Mouth”

Lynn

July 24, 2015

After skeptically doing my first cc oil pull, I am astonished by the whitening effect. I had refrigerated my oil as it was liquefying at our warm room temperatures. After a few minutes, it stopped feeling strange, and the scent was actually pleasant. I was reading some of the comments and I ran out of time far before I got halfway through them. I am in my early sixties, a retired nurse, and have numerous debilitating medical issues. I am a walking pharmacy . Once more I am giving achieving optimal health the ‘old college try’. My teeth feel great without all the aftertaste of whitening toothpaste that hasn’t been as effective and a lot more expensive than my cc oil. My mouth also doesn’t feel dried out as it usually does.
I have an 11 year old mini beagle w ho I love very much. Her teeth are in horrible shape, but I cannot even think about affording a dental cleaning for her. I am going to try using cc oil to brush her teeth with some soft finger brushes I ordered from a pet supply company. I know she won’t be able to swish and spit, but I think it just might help her teeth. I wish I’d known about cc oil a few years ago:) Has anyone had any success with their companion animals oral health using cc oil? I know she likes the taste of it, and will lick it for a good while.
This is the first time I have seen this site, and I find it most interesting.

Reply
siddharth

July 9, 2015

I have been doing now for 15 days, I do daily 20 minutes, no improvement till now (in pain what I have with cavities), and yesterday one of my new gum got hurt even while soft brushing and started bleeding.

I don’t know what I am missing 🙁

but I have lot of hope with this now… and its in my habit now , I can even do it for 50 minutes LOL 🙂

I will continue to use and let you know my update in next comment 🙂

Reply
Barb Sherer

July 8, 2015

I’m new to oil pulling. I’m trying to heal receding gums and a little decay. Where the gums have receded and exposed the top part of the teeth, some of them have areas that look like decay – darker. I’ve been using a couple of drops of Melaleuca and Peppermint EO and will be ordering Myrrh this week. I’ve read that Myrrh can heal receding gums. Does anyone have testimonies regarding using Essential Oils and pulling?

Reply
1. Clemente
  
  July 8, 2015
  
  Barb: I would be VERY leery of using essential oils for this. I have a friend who is a holistic practitioner and he has told me to NEVER ingest EO and you will if you use it for oil pulling no matter how little. Plus essential oils should not be put on the skin directly, rather should be mixed with a carrier oil.
  
  Just use coconut oil. I had the same issue as you, with receding gums, and if you stay at it you will see improvement in a month and hopefully be back to normal in 3 to 4 months. Do it every night or day, be diligent, tell yourself your reward is improved health because it will be.
  
  Hope you’re not a smoker, if so, please try to quit with all your power!
  
  Reply
Siddharth

June 29, 2015

Hi jane,

I have beenn doing this for few days with cocunut oil , it wont work if you do less then 15 minutes as it will take some time to make it white and pul toxin

By the way try cocunut oil , it doesnt have any taste issues with me.

Reply
Jane

June 25, 2015

I have tried gargling with Olive Oil (EVO) today for the first time ever and it was very very very very very very disgusting 🙁 but it felt like I have a cleaner mouth. Didn’t reach 15 or 20 minutes so . I guess I had the oil for only 10-12 minutes in my mouth . I throw up. Would that still work even it was less than 20 minutes ?

Reply
Siddharth

June 23, 2015

Hello,

I am 24years,

I am the perfect piece to try this, I have been suffering from a lot of REALLY a lot of cavities , almost my all molars have it, I got one of my molar extracted and the other one has gone two times under root canal,

I quit brushing and started using Ayurvedic Powders from local stores, they seem to have reduced pain It has been almost 2 years and no new cavities, but the Past one do not heal :(.

My mother is suffering from gingvities and loose gums, she cannot go for cleaning as the Teeths will come out 🙁

Today I am starting with oil pulling, I have both seasame and Cocunut oil, I will start with Cocunut oil today, I have also recommended to my mother.

I will try to give review as fast as I can see a change.

Thanks welness mama for blog.

Reply
1. Siddharth
  
  June 24, 2015
  
  Hello Mama,
  
  So today morning was my first day , I took about 1 spoon of pure coconut oil I got near by and swished in my mouth for 20 minutes without any problem,
  
  I saw many people claiming that it is hard to go to 20 minutes at first ,how much quantity were they taking ?
  
  after about 10 minutes the oil has mixed with mouth water and become double its quantity,
  
  after 20 minutes I spit that in toilet , the liquid was full WHITE in color .
  
  After that I massaged with my normal tooth powder as usual.
  
  Am I doing it in right way , Can I drink Tea and breakfast right after this ?
  
  Reply
2. Jane
  
  June 24, 2015
  
  Good luck Siddharth, you have nothing to lose!
  
  I’m 44 and have a number of (white) fillings. They were amalgam (mercury) to start with but as soon as I could afford the white fillings (when I started working) I replaced the amalgam fillings once they started to wear. Also a couple of my teeth have minor cracks. At my last dental appointment (January this year) I was so annoyed that I had to have a small filling (new cavity).
  
  I found this blog a day or so later. Since then I have been swishing with coconut oil for 20 mins every morning. For the first 2 days I had a fairly severe headache but once this passed I was fine. My breath is fresher (wasn’t so bad in the first place to be honest) but my teeth are definitely brighter and the small gaps between my teeth are more obvious, cleaner and I have far less tartar / plaque overall. I rarely flossed before even though my hygienist would tell me to! I now floss every few days, especially if I’ve eaten meat. I also use homemade toothpaste (a mix of bicarb of soda, coconut oil and spearmint oil).
  
  Let us know how you and your mum get on!
  
  Reply
Jen

June 6, 2015

About half way through my mouth gets so full that it almost hurts and feel like its gonna explode. Is it okay to spit some of it out to make room and continue?

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  June 6, 2015
  
  Yes!
  
  Reply
Aileen

June 4, 2015

I’ve tried oil pulling for 6 months now and I just recently visited my Dentist and I was completely shock that I don’t need of any filling procedure. Simply amazing and I will continue to oil pull every single day.

Reply
1. Siddharth
  
  June 23, 2015
  
  Hi did you suffered from cavities, can you share your experience in Detail, what was it before 6 months ?
  
  Reply
Patrick

May 31, 2015

Imagine if everyone on here spent 20 minutes a day on oral care in the years before starting this pulling trend…. Most dental problems are a from a lack of flossing and eating to much carbs/sugar … Which begin breaking down in your mouth and get lodged between your teeth. Everyone should eliminate drinks with sugar, no more candy, floss twice a day and in general eat less carbs…

Will try this anyways.

Reply
Vivian

May 26, 2015

Hi, is oil pulling with coconut oil and oil of oregano safe for nursing mums? I have tooth decay that I wanna try treating without going for a filling at the dentist. Supplementing with fermented cod liver oil that you wrote about too!

Reply
Stewart

May 22, 2015

For all the dental “hygienists” posting telling people fluoride is safe, baking soda is terribly abrasive, mercury amalgams are safe or that oil pulling is not effective and that multiple x-rays a year is just dandy…it’s totally fine that you hold to these falsehoods – you’re just completely wrong.

If there is an organization slightly less harmful than the AMA, it is the ADA. We need neither group. I’m glad to see people are catching on. This is why we are seeing corporate-driven legislation like we have been seeing in the last 10 years that are mandating people to purchase insurance regardless of need and yet still leaves people in need without help (only in the U.S.A). People are catching on.

So everybody oil pull & if it doesn’t work for you it won’t harm you! So find out for yourself, give it 6 weeks. Make your own toothpaste with coconut oil and baking soda (avoid the glycerin!), and do floss. When you need to replace fillings, consider getting clear amalgams. By-the-book “hygienists” will roll their eyes when you want to avoid mercury fillings because they have their own finances to worry about. Read about mercury fillings. Must you play roulette with heavy metals? That’s up to you.

Lastly, when you brush your teeth do not push hard. Make light, tiny circular motions…which brings me to the last point…when your “”hygienist” strongly suggests you get an electric toothbrush, ask what their kickback is from the one supplier they have – maybe you can golf with them in Myrtle Beach next year! But in this case consider finding someone who is a little less prone to corporatist motives. Good dentists are out there – a solid litmus is they won’t be offended by your curiosity and interest in avoiding poisons.

Be well.

Reply
1. trena
  
  September 4, 2015
  
  I wish I had time 2 share my recent horror story but the jist is I’m on medicare so I have no dental insurance. I noticed a large knot on my back gum as I was getting my cleaning which the dentist claimed was an abscess. I questioned that because it’s hard and smooth with no drainage. I had been doing oil pulling maybe 3 months and it was helping with the dry mouth due to medications. Long story short everyone I spoke with about oil pulling has shunned it or claimed to have no knowledge of this practice.
  
  Be aware as posted above dentists are in business and they are charging us thousands giving us incorrect advice and keeping us coming back knowing that oral health has a huge impact on our entire health. Anything natural and beneficial is the way we should be going to care for ourselves. Do your own research and keep the blogs going so we can remain informed as the Dr’s and dentists battle the insurance for money we the people suffer and go broke. Sorry for standing in my soapbox.
  
  Reply
Jac

May 15, 2015

For receding gums whats best, oil pulling in the evening or in the morning? Or both?

Reply
Clemente

May 14, 2015

I do it in the evenings, near bedtime. I don’t think it matters.

Reply
Kristen

May 13, 2015

Hi,
So I’m gonna give this a try. I’m curious as to what the importance is about doing it on an empty stomach or before breakfast. I seem to have more time for this in the evenings before bed. I figure I’ll still benefit but why do they say to do it specifically before breakfast? Thanks!

Reply
Andrea

May 7, 2015

I have a question. For how long, and how often should I do this therapy in order to keep mouth bacteria that causes cavities at bay? I have started only a couple of days ago. I experienced the most detox symptoms on the first day including diarrhea, and flu like symptoms (fever, congestion, headache, and pain all over my body) all which went away by the time I went to sleep. I can tell it is making a difference, and I’m so thankful I found your blog. I have taken care of my teeth obsessively (according to my hubby) the conventional way. It’s NOT working. Time to take a different approach. Thank you for providing us with the tools we need to take charge.

Reply
1. Clemente
  
  May 14, 2015
  
  Do it for as long as you can. Every time you do it you’re helping your body to better health. I’ve been doing it for six months and don’t plan to stop anytime soon.
  
  Remember when people started getting their tonsils taken out? Then we found out that’s not a good idea because the tonsils keep a lot of bad bacteria out of our stomach. Oil pulling is doing the same thing which should make us healthier and with other good benefits one would think.
  
  If you get tired of doing it just take a sabbatical. But taking 20 minutes a day to do this beats going to dentists, for me anyway, for any kind of treatment no matter if it’s a cleaning, but esp for something serious like cavities and/or root canals.
  
  Reply
  1. Andrea
    
    May 19, 2015
    
    Thank you for the response Clemente!!
    
    Reply
Leb

May 1, 2015

So I just started this (I love coconut oil and it has been making its way throughout my life and health routine now that I can obtain it more easily) and have found that the tooth where I have the most sensitivity bleeds a bit during this. Is that normal? I am hoping this may help that tooth (along with the night guard I will be getting for night-clenching). I’ve been holding and swishing before brushing my teeth and while I’m doing my morning routine. I then brush normally and yes, I still see the dentist and the hygienists there are very curious, in a good way – they’re interested, to see if there will be a difference in six months or so. 🙂

Also, what can I do with the used coconut oil? Can I add it to the garden, at least? It just feels wasteful to not repurpose it.

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  May 1, 2015
  
  You could try adding to your garden, I don’t think it would hurt…
  
  Reply
  1. Sue Wells
    
    May 1, 2015
    
    I’m not an expert in this, but everyone says that the used oil is full of toxins. I would do everything I can to avoid toxins in the garden (as well as everywhere else), so I wouldn’t put it in my garden or yard. There’s a possibility that it might be okay to put it in a compost pile that gets really “hot”, but I’m not even sure that that’s safe.
    
    Reply
stephanie

April 30, 2015

I was curious, I currently have a chipped tooth and a receding gum line which I have to get a skin graph for. If I did the oil pulling with my unrefined coconut oil could this possibly help not only lessen the skin receding process, but make the tooth and gums healthier before I do go to the dentist to get this major procedure done?

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1. Clemente
  
  May 12, 2015
  
  RE the receding gum line most definitely! I had an issue w/ that and mine have come back except for one tooth, but it’s just a matter of time. Just keep at it, I’ve been doing this, almost six months now, almost every night without fail. I think I missed doing it one time.
  
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Kasnya

April 28, 2015

Oil pulling is amazing! Although my husband and I do it a bit differently—the swishing with a mouthful of oil made us gag. I just put my Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a little bottle, squirt it on my toothbrush and then brush with just plain oil twice a day. It works SO well that my husband’s terrible plaque buildup between his bottom teeth dissolved within about 2 weeks—no scraping and no dentist.

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Lily

April 25, 2015

After my yearly cleaning, I found that my gum has deterioration and worry If I have periodontitis. Although two dentists told me there was nothing wrong with my teeth. And one even claimed that my uncomfortable feelings are because I have mental problem. Well, Even though you cannot find out Why I keep feeling my gum is aching, you cannot accuse your patient has mental problems. I’m done talking with dentists. If they cannot fix it, I fix.
Then, I search for awhile. I find oil pulling and some Chinese medicine teeth powder are recommended.
And now, I tried the oil pulling for about 2weeks with organic coconut oil, but I still feel those aching and nothing else.
I want know how long do it take to make my gum healthy again? And should I change my oil?

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Beth

April 24, 2015

CHOKING WARNING!
I tried oil pulling for the first time a couple of weeks ago. While doing so, my husband came into the bathroom and started brushing his teeth. I tried to signal to him, and explain (as best as I could), that I was oil pulling (something we had recently talked about trying). When I did so, I happened to breath in a tiny bit of oil (only was using about a teaspoon or less). I coughed and spit out my mouthful of coconut oil mixed with saliva into the sink. I tried to take a breath in, but couldn’t. I left the room, as I didn’t want my husband to get stressed, which would stress me even more. I tried to relax, keeping in mind that any tension will only cause my heart rate to go up…thus requiring more air. I was trying my darndest to keep cool, but pretty soon I needed air so bad, that I was sucking air in as hard as I could, with very little result. I finally went up to my husband, who by this time was very worried, as I was only making long wheezing sounds. He still had no idea that I had choked on coconut oil, and didn’t know what to do. I kept struggling and making long, inhaling, wheezing sounds, until finally my windpipe opened bit by bit. By the time I was able to talk and explain myself, my husband was completely freaked out. We both thought I was dying! Oh my goodness…if any of you should ever oil pull, be careful not to accidentally breath it in! This was by far the scariest thing that’s ever happened to me, and the oil literally blocked any air from getting in. I’ve heard the same can happen with other oils, so be careful of them too. I’ve also since read that many children have died from breathing coconut oil in. One can also get pneumonia from such an incident, which can be impossible to treat, due to the nature of the oil…Yikes! Needless to say, I’ve been too chicken to try oil pulling again, which is too bad since I had so been looking forward to trying it. Keep in mind that I inhaled such a small amount, as I spit the rest out. Anyway, I hope the rest of you never have to experience such a situation. Thank you so much for you blog, and God bless!

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1. Phil Sone
  
  April 29, 2015
  
  Yeah you really don’t need to be doing that…….I have been using this technique for the past 12 years and have actually stopped going to the dentist because every year it is the same thing, plaque free and no cavities. Try this method………you will need to buy a water pick water flosser….they are only about $30 in Walmart (on sale for $20) and get a firm toothbrush to……..in a small jar like a baby food jar mix a 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with your coconut oil…….shake it to mix properly before each use……fill the water pik with warm water and a cap full of mouth wash like Listerine and you are ready……..shake the coconut oil…..dip your brush in and brush your teeth thoroughly for 5 minutes…..clean everywhere and don’t miss a spot……..don’t forget to use the edge of the bristles to brush along the gum line…….DO NOT SWALLOW!!……now rinse your mouth with warm water a few times…….next use the water pik with a full reservoir and water floss your gums and teeth with the highest pressure you can stand from back to front over and over until the reservoir is empty….rinse with a mouthful of warm water…….you are done!!! This whole routine takes about 10 minutes…..you only have to do the water pik in the morning,………I do it at night before bed as well but that is up to you…..just be sure to brush after lunch and dinner with the coconut/baking soda mix and rinse well with a diluted mouthwash/warm water mix. The idea is to loosen the plaques and bacteria with the coconut/baking soda mix and then flush the mess out with the water pik. I guarantee your mouth will feel amazing, your teeth will look whiter, your breath will be fresher and your dentist will hate you.
  
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  1. jac
    
    April 29, 2015
    
    Can i ask if this helps with receeding gums?
    
    Reply
    1. Clemente
      
      April 30, 2015
      
      Jac: Yes, it does! That’s the main reason I started oil pulling. I’ve been doing it about six months and I think within a couple of months you will see some improvement. I only have a couple of teeth left where the gums are not as previous level and one may not ever come around, it’s kind of a snaggle (crooked) tooth but fortunately on the bottom so not very noticeable!
      
      Please keep at it, try to do it every day and you should be wondering why you weren’t doing it previously! 😉
      
      Reply