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What experts say about the viral ‘oil pulling’ trend
CNN • • health
Key Points:
- Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice involving swishing edible oils like coconut oil in the mouth for up to 20 minutes, has recently regained popularity as a natural oral health trend on social media.
- While oil pulling can reduce bacterial counts in the mouth, there is no reliable scientific evidence that it whitens teeth, reduces plaque or gum inflammation, or improves overall oral health compared to standard brushing and flossing.
- Dental experts agree oil pulling is not harmful but caution against using it as a replacement for proven dental treatments like toothpaste, flossing, and professional care for infections.
- Traditional mouthwash with antibacterial agents and fluoride offers measurable oral health benefits but should be used as a supplement, not a substitute, for brushing and flossing.
- Overall, oil pulling is considered a time-consuming practice that provides little benefit beyond established oral hygiene routines and may give users a false sense of protection.
