The latest trend when it comes to dental care seems to be a practice called oil-pulling. There are many heated discussions about the validity behind this practice whether its effects are positive or negative on dental hygiene. One can have his or her own perspective about such topic but this blog touches on my personal perspective of oil-pulling and my tried and true experience.
Coconut oil by Meal Makeover Moms on Flickr Commons
Oil-pulling refers to practice of swishing or holding oils produced from plants for a certain period of time depending on each preference. People practicing oil pulling claim that its effects primarily remove toxins and bacteria in the body which has built up in the mouth, and that swishing oil will draw out these impurities or wash them from the mouth.
Does it sound wishy washy? It probably is not to people who are desperate for any solution to their excruciating dental pain. Despite efforts of brushing, flossing, and mouth-washing, one may be susceptible to oral pain in gum and nerve wrecking damage from root canal such as myself. I needed to do something for the pain and the trend of oil-pulling caught my attention.
[Credit to Dr. Ben Baechler]
Scientists have been arguing between its effects or lack there-of. Dr. Leslie Laing, a prosthodontist and an assistant professor in the faculty of dentistry at the University of Toronto claims that “after I do this, the lining of my mouth is incredibly soft and smooth,” she said. “I’ve also noticed that even my teeth look a little brighter after doing this.” She is also actively researching the benefits of oil pulling and its medical effect on many symptoms. On the other hand, Mark Wolff, professor and chair at the New York University College of Dentistry, expresses skepticism about oil pulling’s effects on oral health, claiming that he is “not sure there is any harm, but I have never seen it have any positive effect on my patients who have been using oil pulling or in clinical research that has been published.” There is also little research available on the effectiveness of these treatments to cure other diseases.
Toothbrush by William Warby on Flickr Commons
Ultimately, oil pulling has benefits and side-effects. On personal level, I have been using coconut oil readily available at any types of superstores. I must admit when it was first tried it was not the most pleasant experience as having big glob of oil swishing in my mouth did not feel too swell. However, as each day added on, the practice became easier. After a week, I started noticing the colour change in my gum. I also noticed oral pain being reduced as this practice continued on. I am currently about one month into the practice and I must say that its effects have been positive. And it must not be mistaken as substitute of regular brushing and flossing, but should be used in conjuncture of oral hygiene practice.
Grace Kim.
