With all of the discussion about how to make your mouth the healthiest place possible, some people have noted that using coconut oil as a mouthwash (called oil pulling) is a way to ensure your mouth is as healthy as it can be. Not sure what oil pulling is? Consider this an introductory course.

Oil Pulling Using Coconut Oil

Oil pulling has been around for thousands of years and is most associated with traditional Indian medicine from the subcontinent. Research has stated that oil pulling using coconut can kill bacteria in the mouth, which results in overall dental health, as bacteria are the leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease. Oil pulling may also keep gums healthy and reduce inflamed gums.

There is also some research that shows using coconut oil as a mouthwash helps people with bad breath, because it lasts longer than traditional mouthwashes and kills the bacteria responsible for much of the halitosis in humans.

One of the most important points about using coconut oil as a mouthwash is that it works to prevent inflammation and improve overall gum health. While mouthwash does not appear to help with gum inflammation, coconut oil does. Research has shown that using coconut oil as a mouthwash helps lower inflammation on your gums.

It would appear that using coconut oil as a mouthwash may be one way to reduce the numbers of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Coconut oil also works to prevent inflammation in your gums and helps prevent bad breath.

If you have questions about how oil pulling may help your overall oral health, why not give us a call today? We can schedule an appointment with you to talk about the benefits of coconut oil as a mouthwash. We can also talk with you about any other questions you might have about your teeth or gums.