You may visit your dentist for various reasons varying from regular dental cleanings to dental treatments. You can also consult your family dentist for various dental care concerns you may have. Recently, social media and celebrities have been witnessed popularizing the oil pulling technique to maintaining good oral health.
Before following social media trends of oil pulling, you must consult your family dentist. At RiverRock Dental, our knowledgeable and experienced dentists will tell you everything related to the oil pulling technique.
Let’s find out what our dentists have to say about oil pulling, how it started and alternate solutions.
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an ancient procedure which has been considered to treat various dental problems. It is effective in cleaning the mouth, teeth whitening, curing bad breath, and inflammation. It can help to prevent conditions such as eczema, arthritis, and gum diseases.
The process involves swishing your mouth with high-quality oil for about 20 minutes a day. The oils most recommended for use are organic coconut oil, sesame oil or sunflower oil.
There are no scientific studies that claim the effectiveness of this technique yet many people say it works. On the contrary, there are many people who experienced negative effects from this technique.
Why oil pulling works for some and doesn’t work for others?
The founders of oil pulling said that it helps to whiten teeth and reduces plaque. However, the same benefits can be easily accomplished with using mouthwash, chewing sugar-free gum or rinsing with water. All these options work to increase saliva and reduce plaque concentration without sticking to the teeth.
Oil pulling is beneficial if done regularly for 20 minutes but it is very difficult for many. When swishing, the oil doubles and your mouth is filled with saliva that is produced. When you spit out the oil, the consistency is too unpleasant to be continued as a daily habit.
Therefore, your dentist will usually recommend you to use an alcohol-free mouthwash available in a variety of flavors.
Is Oil-Pulling Better than other Dental Solutions?
Although oil-pulling may remove some plaque from your mouth, it needs proper tools and procedures. Brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing, use of mouthwash, and chewing sugar-free gums are better alternate solutions.
Effective home remedies can still not equal the importance of regularly visiting a dentist. Even if you maintain good oral health, visiting your family dentist twice a year is important to address any oral care needs. There are dental issues and problems such as loose or broken teeth, jaw pain, diseases etc that need your dentist’s attention.
If you want to enhance your smile with whiter teeth or want to discuss any dental concerns talk to our dentists. Our experienced dentists will help you adapt better natural solutions to serve your specific dental needs.
If you have concerns regarding your oral health and hygiene, make an appointment with your family dentist.
Contact Us today to discuss the best options to ensure better dental health.
