How To Whiten Teeth With Coconut Oil

Oil pulling is an ancient Indian folk remedy that involves swishing oil in the mouth for 10 to 20 minutes. The goal is to pull the toxins and bacteria out of the body through the mouth and into the oil. There are many different types of oils that can be used, but coconut oil is a popular option due to its health benefits. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is antimicrobial and antibacterial. It also has antifungal and antiviral properties.

What is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling is a method of removing bacteria, germs, and plaque from your mouth using natural oils. The oils are “swished” or “pulled” around in your mouth for about 20 minutes. This generally involves swishing the oil inside your mouth for up to 10-15 minutes before spitting it out into the trash can, rinsing your mouth with warm water, and then brushing your teeth as normal.

There are so many different oils that you can choose from to whiten your teeth with oil pulling. Some of the most popular are coconut oil, sesame oil, peppermint oil, and sunflower oil. All of these oils contain natural antibacterial properties that help remove plaque and kill harmful oral bacteria. Additionally, these oils have antifungal properties that can fight bad breath. 

How does Oil Pulling Work?

The oil-pulling process can remove toxins and bacteria that build up on tooth surfaces. By eliminating these harmful substances and reducing the presence of stains or plaque, coconut oil can give a whitening effect.

Besides, oil pulling offers the following benefits:

• It relieves a dry throat
• Helps to heal cracked or dry lips
• Helps eliminate bad breath
• Reduces inflammation in the mouth
• Helps to heal bleeding gums

To perform oil pulling, you should swish approximately one tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for approximately 20 minutes per day. When performed properly, the process should not cause any discomfort in the mouth. Using an oil-pulling method to whiten teeth at home is generally safe as long as it’s done properly. This means that you should always spit out the oil after swishing it in your mouth for at least 15 minutes and only use gentle pressure when swishing it around your mouth. Don’t use too much force, as you could damage your cheek or gum tissues this way. Finally, never swallow the oil.

In addition to whitening mechanisms, the oil-pulling process can also improve overall oral health by protecting against cavities and gingivitis. Studies show that oil pulling can reduce the presence of Streptococcus Mutans, the bacteria responsible for common dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.

Can Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

Many people claim that coconut oil can have some whitening effects, but the results are not particularly dramatic or long-lasting. As with any natural teeth whitener, coconut oil may work well on surface stains caused by staining foods and drinks. However, it is not effective at eliminating deep-set stains that develop over time due to age, tobacco use, medications, etc. 

Though people claim that oil pulling can reduce tooth discoloration, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The only way to whiten teeth and eliminate deep dental stains is to see a cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening treatments such as veneers, professional strength whitening agents, or custom-fitted take-home whitening trays. These in-office treatments have a more significant impact on the overall shade of the teeth than oil pulling would.

If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact the cosmetic dentist in Phoenix, AZ, at (602) 249-2227 or visit us at 1277 E Missouri Ave Ste 217 Phoenix, AZ 85014.