Oil pulling, an ancient practice rooted in traditional medicine, involves rinsing the mouth with edible oil for an extended period. This technique has seen a resurgence in popularity as a natural approach to oral care. Many users claim it offers various health benefits, but the central question is whether this remedy can deliver a noticeably brighter smile. We will investigate the science behind this practice to determine if oil pulling is a genuine method for achieving truly whiter teeth.
The Practice of Oil Pulling
Oil pulling, known in Ayurveda as kavala or gandusha, is a traditional practice dating back thousands of years in ancient Indian medicine. The process involves taking a small amount of oil, typically one tablespoon, and swishing it around the mouth. This is done for a prolonged duration, commonly recommended to be between 10 and 20 minutes, before the oil is expelled.
The oils used are plant-based, with coconut oil highly favored today due to its mild taste and lauric acid content. Traditionally, Ayurvedic texts recommended sesame oil or sunflower oil. The practice is typically performed first thing in the morning before brushing or eating.
Scientific Analysis of Teeth Whitening Claims
True teeth whitening, or bleaching, is a chemical process that alters the intrinsic color of the tooth structure. This lightening occurs through an oxidation reaction requiring active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents release oxygen free radicals that penetrate the enamel and dentin to break down chromogens, the organic molecules responsible for stains.
Oil pulling does not contain these necessary oxidative chemicals and cannot initiate the chemical breakdown of deeply set stains. The oils do not possess the capacity to diffuse through the tooth structure or permanently change its color. Therefore, oil pulling does not achieve the deep, long-lasting color alteration seen with professional or peroxide-based treatments.
Any perceived whitening effect is attributed to the mechanical removal of extrinsic surface stains and debris. Surface discoloration, often caused by coffee, tea, or tobacco, accumulates in the layer of plaque. By physically binding to and removing this surface film, the teeth may appear cleaner and brighter. This effect is a polishing and cleaning action, not an actual bleaching of the tooth’s intrinsic color.
Proven Effects on Oral Hygiene
While oil pulling does not chemically whiten teeth, studies suggest it offers verifiable benefits for general oral hygiene. The oils are lipophilic, meaning they attract and bind to fat-soluble substances, including the lipid membranes of oral bacteria. This mechanical action reduces the overall microbial load in the mouth.
Limited research indicates that swishing with oil, particularly coconut oil, can decrease the presence of Streptococcus mutans. This bacterium is a primary contributor to dental decay and plaque formation. Reductions in S. mutans have been observed in some studies to be comparable to the effects seen with commercial mouthwashes.
By reducing plaque and the concentration of harmful bacteria, oil pulling can also help mitigate gingivitis and reduce symptoms of halitosis, or bad breath. These effects stem from the physical cleansing action and the mild antibacterial properties of certain oils. However, oil pulling is considered a supplementary practice and should not replace conventional oral care routines like brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing.