Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice involving swishing a tablespoon of edible oil in the mouth for an extended period. This complementary oral hygiene technique has recently become popular. Questions have arisen about the safety of oil pulling, specifically concerning its interaction with existing dental work. This information addresses whether oil pulling may compromise the integrity of various dental restorations.
What is Oil Pulling and How is it Supposed to Work?
The procedure typically involves using oils like coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil and swishing the liquid vigorously between the teeth for five to twenty minutes. The practice is traditionally done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach before brushing. The proposed mechanism of action is primarily mechanical, suggesting the oil physically attracts and absorbs bacteria and debris from the oral cavity.
The oil’s interaction with saliva may trigger saponification, which is the alkaline hydrolysis of fat. This process leads to the formation of a soap-like substance. This chemical reaction, combined with the agitation of swishing, emulsifies the oil, enhancing its cleansing action and ability to trap microorganisms.
Interaction with Permanent Dental Fillings
The concern that oil pulling may chemically degrade permanent restorations depends heavily on the filling material. For most modern, long-term dental work, the risk of chemical breakdown from vegetable oils appears minimal.
Amalgam, often called silver fillings, is a highly stable and inert material composed of metal alloys like silver, tin, and copper. These alloys are not known to chemically react with or be dissolved by edible oils. While theoretical concerns exist about the lipophilic nature of mercury, scientific evidence is limited regarding whether oil pulling increases mercury leaching beyond what naturally occurs.
Composite resin fillings, the tooth-colored material, are generally safe from chemical degradation. These materials are resilient and resistant to most oral substances encountered daily. However, there is an unproven concern that prolonged exposure to specific oil components might soften the polymer matrix or cause slight discoloration over many years.
The integrity of the bond between the permanent filling and the tooth enamel is strong. When the filling is fully cured and properly seated, the chemical interaction with swished oil is not considered a threat to its long-term stability.
Mechanical Risks to Temporary Restorations and Cement
The primary risk associated with oil pulling involves the physical act of vigorous swishing, particularly with non-permanent dental work. Temporary fillings, crowns, and bridges are held in place with weaker, provisional luting cement. This cement is designed for easy removal by a dentist when the permanent restoration is ready.
The forceful and prolonged mechanical action of “pulling” the oil generates significant suction and hydraulic pressure. This repeated stress can physically compromise the seal or mechanically loosen a temporary restoration. The temporary cement is not robust enough to withstand the sustained, vigorous movement often recommended with oil pulling.
Newly placed permanent restorations, such as crowns or bridges, may also be at greater initial risk. Although permanent cement is strong, the mechanical force of the oil could exploit the initial curing period or any marginal gaps. While the oil’s emulsification might theoretically affect the cement’s environment, physical force is the more likely culprit for dislodgement.
Professional Dental Guidance
Oil pulling should be viewed as a complementary practice and must never replace brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing. Dental professionals stress that traditional mechanical plaque removal remains the most effective method for maintaining oral health.
Individuals with extensive dental work, new restorations, or compromised fillings should consult their dentist before beginning the practice. If integrating oil pulling, use a gentle swishing motion rather than aggressive “pulling” to minimize mechanical stress. Vigorous action can lead to jaw fatigue and potentially dislodge temporary fillings.
If any discomfort, shifting, or sensation of loosening occurs near a restoration, immediately discontinue the practice and seek professional dental assessment. The mechanical force of oil pulling poses a greater, more immediate threat to temporary dental work retention than chemical breakdown of permanent materials.