The discomfort of sensitive teeth, medically known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common issue that causes short, sharp pain in response to everyday stimuli. This condition can interfere with enjoying hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. Among home remedies, the use of coconut oil, often through the ancient practice of oil pulling, has gained popularity as a natural approach to manage sensitivity. This article examines the biological cause of tooth sensitivity and explores whether coconut oil offers a scientifically supported solution.
Understanding Sensitive Teeth
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying layer of the tooth, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin is normally protected by enamel above the gumline and cementum below it. Erosion, gum recession, or aggressive brushing can wear away these protective layers, revealing the porous dentin underneath.
The dentin is composed of microscopic channels known as dentin tubules, which extend outward from the pulp, the center of the tooth where the nerves are located. Each tubule contains fluid. When the dentin is exposed, external stimuli like cold air or sweet foods cause this fluid to shift rapidly. This movement is communicated to the nerves inside the pulp, which the brain interprets as the sharp, temporary pain characteristic of sensitivity. This pain is explained by the hydrodynamic theory, which proposes that this fluid movement, rather than direct nerve stimulation, is the main trigger.
The Proposed Mechanism of Coconut Oil
The traditional practice of oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in the mouth for an extended period. Proponents suggest this mechanical action, combined with the oil’s chemical properties, can aid in reducing tooth sensitivity. The primary mechanism involves the removal of plaque and bacteria, which contribute to gum recession and the loss of the protective smear layer over dentin.
Coconut oil is composed largely of medium-chain fatty acids, with lauric acid accounting for approximately 45 to 50 percent of its content. When the oil is swished, lauric acid reacts with alkaline components in saliva through saponification. This reaction creates a soap-like substance that helps to lift and remove plaque and debris from the tooth surfaces.
Beyond cleansing, lauric acid exhibits antimicrobial properties, particularly against common oral pathogens. It inhibits the growth of bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, a primary contributor to tooth decay and acid production. By reducing the overall bacterial load and inflammation, oil pulling may indirectly reduce sensitivity by improving gum health and reducing the likelihood of dentin exposure over time.
Scientific Evidence and Dental Opinion
The scientific literature supports the use of coconut oil pulling for general oral hygiene, specifically in reducing plaque and symptoms of gingivitis. Studies indicate that the practice can significantly decrease plaque indices and inflammatory markers. However, direct evidence confirming that coconut oil seals the exposed dentin tubules—the necessary action to eliminate hypersensitivity—remains limited.
One small clinical investigation suggested that oil pulling might be as effective as a commercial desensitizing paste in reducing dentin hypersensitivity scores. This finding is preliminary, and the consensus among dental professionals is that more large-scale, controlled studies are needed to substantiate this specific desensitization claim. Dentists recognize the antimicrobial benefits of coconut oil as a supplement to a standard oral hygiene routine.
For direct treatment of dentin hypersensitivity, professionals rely on proven agents designed to block the dentin tubules or calm the nerve. While coconut oil is not considered a primary treatment, its ability to reduce inflammation and plaque contributes to a healthier oral environment. A reduction in inflammation may decrease the likelihood of further gum recession, a major cause of dentin exposure.
Using Coconut Oil and Proven Alternatives
For individuals interested in trying oil pulling, the process involves placing one tablespoon of oil in the mouth and gently swishing it for about 10 to 20 minutes. Avoid swallowing the oil, as it contains absorbed toxins and bacteria. The oil should be spit into the trash, not down the sink, to prevent plumbing clogs.
While coconut oil offers supplementary oral health benefits, patients experiencing persistent sensitivity should rely on clinically proven treatments recommended by a dentist. The first-line defense involves using desensitizing toothpaste, which contains ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride. These agents work either by blocking pain signals or by forming a physical barrier over the exposed tubules.
Professional treatments, often administered in a dental office, include the application of fluoride varnishes or gels to strengthen enamel and reduce permeability. For more severe or localized cases, a dentist may apply bonding agents or sealants to cover the exposed root surfaces. In instances where sensitivity is caused by significant gum recession, a surgical gum graft may be recommended to cover the exposed dentin.