Why Use Coconut Oil For Teeth?

Why Use Coconut Oil For Teeth?

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Explore the benefits of coconut oil for teeth in this concise guide. Learn how its antimicrobial properties help fight bacteria, reduce plaque, and prevent cavities. Discover the ancient technique of oil pulling and its role in enhancing dental hygiene. Supported by both traditional practices and modern research, this blog offers insights into using coconut oil for teeth & gum health, covering everything from what is coconut oil, to its benefits, and how to use it to leverage all its benefits.

What Is Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is a treasure trove of health benefits. It is derived from the flesh of coconuts and is an edible oil. Being an edible oil it is widely used for cooking purposes. Coconut oil is also known for its skin and health benefits and has been used as a hair oil for centuries. It's predominantly composed of saturated fats, with lauric acid making up about half of its fatty acid content. Lauric acid, alongside its monoglyceride form, monolaurin, is celebrated for its ability to dismantle harmful bacteria and viruses, making coconut oil a potent antimicrobial agent. [1][2][3]

Historically, Ayurvedic medicine has harnessed these properties for various health purposes, including dental care. The practice of oil pulling, which involves swishing oil in the mouth to pull out toxins and bacteria, has been a staple in Ayurvedic routines for centuries, illustrating the deep-rooted belief in coconut oil's ability to preserve and enhance oral health.

Coconut Oil and Teeth

Coconut oil is celebrated for its myriad of health benefits, including its positive impact on dental health, thanks to its rich lauric acid content. This fatty acid is adept at combating harmful oral bacteria linked to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Its antibacterial prowess extends to thwarting plaque accumulation on teeth, which may cause gum irritation and inflammation, positioning coconut oil as a potent ally against gum disease. Moreover, it is as effective as many commercial mouth rinses in fighting decay-causing bacteria like streptococcus mutans and lactobacillus. [1][4][5]

Beyond its applications for hair and skin health, coconut oil's role in dental hygiene is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used for centuries to cleanse and whiten teeth, freshen breath, and bolster gum health, underscoring its enduring relevance in oral care practices. The health-boosting attributes of coconut oil, particularly for oral health, continue to be supported by modern research, illustrating its effectiveness in maintaining a healthy mouth and preventing dental issues. [6]

Benefits Of Coconut Oil Pulling For Teeth

Coconut oil and dental health have been associated with each other since coconut oil gained popularity as a favored option for oil pulling. Oil pulling with coconut oil for teeth is an ancient practice revitalized in modern health routines, celebrated for its dental benefits. This method of using coconut oil for teeth health involves swishing coconut oil in the mouth, leveraging the oil's natural properties to improve oral health significantly. Here's a focused overview of the research-proven benefits of using coconut oil on teeth:

It May Prevent Harmful Bacteria

Coconut oil has been found to combat harmful oral bacteria that can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease, according to several sources. It is particularly adept at eliminating Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), a primary culprit behind tooth decay.  [7]

In a study with 50 children aged 8 to 12, daily oil pulling with coconut oil for 2 to 3 minutes over a month also led to a notable decrease in S. mutans levels, matching the efficacy of chlorhexidine, indicating that coconut oil could be just as effective. [8]

Another study involving 60 participants demonstrated that oil pulling with coconut oil (10 milliliters daily) for two weeks significantly lowered the levels of S. mutans, showing results comparable to those achieved with chlorhexidine, a widely used antibacterial component in mouthwashes. [7]

However, a review from 2020 calls for more comprehensive, well-powered randomized controlled trials to fully ascertain the effectiveness of oil pulling in eliminating oral bacteria. [6]

It May Prevent Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a widespread issue affecting oral health. Coconut oil has antimicrobial qualities that can target and eliminate the bacteria responsible for bad odors. [9][10]

A randomized pilot study found a noticeable improvement in breath freshness and self-reported breath quality following oil pulling with sesame oil. Given that coconut oil shares similar saponification and antimicrobial traits with sesame oil, it's possible that oil pulling with coconut oil could yield comparable benefits. [11]

Products like GuruNanda's Cocomint Pulling Oil, which combines the benefits of coconut oil with the refreshing taste of mint, have been clinically proven to alleviate halitosis for up to 12 hours when used for at least 2 minutes, offering a practical and natural solution for maintaining fresh breath.

It May Prevent Cavities

Cavities originate from tooth decay, which is primarily caused by bacterial accumulation, inadequate dental care, and the consumption of sugary foods. Plaque, a biofilm consisting of bacteria, saliva, and food remnants, adheres to the teeth, potentially leading to enamel erosion and cavity formation. [12]

Research from 2016 indicates that oil pulling could diminish the levels of bacteria responsible for cavities in the oral cavity. When combined with regular brushing, tongue scraping, and flossing, oil pulling can serve as an additional and necessary measure to promote dental health. [8]

It May Improve Gum Health & Reduce Plaque

Gum disease, or gingivitis, is characterized by gum inflammation, primarily caused by the accumulation of dental plaque from harmful mouth bacteria, often linked to subpar oral hygiene practices. [13]

A preliminary study involving 60 participants who engaged in oil pulling with coconut oil for a month noted a significant reduction in plaque accumulation and gingivitis symptoms among those with plaque-induced gum disease. By the study's conclusion, plaque levels had dropped by 68%, and gingivitis scores by 56%, although the study did not include a control group for comparison. [14]

Moreover, a week-long study that compared daily 10-minute oil-pulling sessions with coconut oil to a control group using a mineral water rinse found similar plaque reduction results in both groups. This suggests that regular mouth rinsing might have a significant effect on reducing plaque buildup. [15]

Another early study found notable declines in plaque index and bleeding (indicative of gum health) after participants practiced oil pulling with coconut oil for 20 minutes daily over a month. [16]

While these findings are encouraging, there is a call for more extensive, randomized controlled trials to confirm these results.

Teeth Whitening

While direct scientific evidence is limited, anecdotal reports suggest that coconut oil pulling may help whiten teeth by removing surface stains. Specifically, GuruNanda's oil pulling products, which include seven different natural essential oils along with vitamins D3, E, and K2, have shown clinical benefits. Such products have been clinically shown to brighten teeth by at least two shades over a baseline within six weeks, provided they are used daily for at least two minutes. In contrast, traditional oil pulling with regular coconut oil typically requires 10-20 minutes per session to achieve optimal results. The addition of essential oils and vitamins in GuruNanda's rinse might offer quicker visible results even with shorter durations of oil pulling.

How To Use Coconut Oil For Teeth?

  • Choosing the Oil: Opt for high-quality coconut oil for its natural benefits.
  • The Routine: Begin with a teaspoon of coconut oil, swishing gently in the mouth. Gradually increase both the amount of oil and the duration of swishing as you become more comfortable, aiming for up to 15-20 minutes.
  • Consistency Is Key: Daily practice, ideally in the morning before breakfast, maximizes the health benefits.
  • Post-oil pulling care: Dispose of the oil in the trash (to avoid clogging drains) and follow up with regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing, tongue scraping, flossing, and rinsing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, integrating coconut oil for teeth into your daily oral hygiene regimen goes beyond traditional care, offering unique benefits supported by both ancient wisdom and contemporary research. This natural method may significantly reduce oral bacteria, particularly those causing tooth decay and gum disease, which may in turn lead to fresher breath, fewer cavities, and healthier gums. Regular and correct application of coconut oil pulling can also aid in reducing plaque buildup and might even contribute to whitening your teeth by removing surface stains. When practiced consistently, alongside standard dental care, coconut oil pulling not only promises a healthier oral environment but also reflects a commitment to a more natural, preventative approach to dental health. So, include coconut oil pulling for teeth & gum health into your oral care routine and unlock a host of benefits for your mouth's well-being.

 

FAQs

Q: What is coconut oil pulling for teeth & gum health?

A: Coconut oil pulling is a traditional oral hygiene practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth for 5 to 20 minutes. This method aims to reduce harmful oral bacteria, detoxify the mouth, and improve overall dental health by pulling toxins from your teeth and gums into the oil, which is then expelled.

A: Q: Can coconut oil reverse tooth decay?

A: Tooth decay is irreversible once it has occurred, and coconut oil alone cannot reverse this damage. However, the antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can help reduce bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, which are known to contribute to decay. Incorporating regular oil pulling into a comprehensive oral hygiene routine that consists of tongue scraping, brushing, flossing, and rinsing can assist in maintaining a cleaner oral environment and potentially prevent the onset of new cavities. [7]

Q: How does coconut oil affect gum health?

A: Coconut oil positively affects gum health by potentially reducing inflammation and minimizing the presence of harmful bacteria that contribute to gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe the gums, while its antimicrobial action helps maintain a balanced oral microbiome, promoting healthier gums. [5]

Q: Can you use coconut oil to brush your teeth?

A: Yes, it is safe to brush your teeth with coconut oil. Many people add coconut oil to their toothpaste or use it directly on their toothbrush. 

Q: Can coconut oil whiten my teeth?

A: Clinical research suggests that regular use of GuruNanda oil pulling products, which incorporate coconut oil, can brighten teeth by at least two shades. This effect is achieved when used consistently for six weeks, with each session lasting at least 2 minutes per day. Additionally, there is anecdotal evidence that oil pulling with these products can help reduce surface stains on teeth, leading to a whiter appearance.

Q: Does coconut oil pulling have any impact on tooth pain or sensitivity?

A: Coconut oil pulling can have a soothing effect on tooth pain and sensitivity for some individuals. Its antibacterial properties may help address the underlying infections or inflammations causing the discomfort. Additionally, the oil forms a protective barrier over the teeth, which might temporarily reduce sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli. However, it's crucial to consult a dentist for persistent pain or sensitivity, as these could be signs of more severe dental issues.

Q: Is it safe to swallow coconut oil?

A: While coconut oil is edible, you should not swallow oil that you have used for your oil-pulling routine.

Q: Can coconut oil regrow teeth?

A: No, coconut oil cannot regrow teeth. Once adult teeth are lost, they cannot regenerate.

Q: How soon can I start oil pulling after tooth extraction?

A: Wait at least 1-2 weeks after tooth extraction to allow for initial healing before starting oil pulling. Always consult your dentist first.

Q: Does coconut oil remove plaque?

A: Yes, coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce plaque formation by targeting bacteria responsible for plaque buildup.

 

 

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Written by Anish Nanda M.D.

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