I am curious about what your thoughts are on oil pulling. I’ve read that this can whiten your teeth naturally. I’m very big on doing everything I can naturally to help my body, for instance, I watch what I eat and exercise. In fact, it was my yoga instructor who suggested I try oil pulling when I told her I was disappointed in my smile. It needs some brightening and has started to show its age. Will it work? And more importantly, will it do any harm?

Sadie

Dear Sadie,

It’s great to hear about people who are anxious to take care of both their bodies and their teeth. Great job! For those who have not heard about this before, bear with me as I briefly describe oil pulling. This is part of the Ayurvedic practice in India and is used as a natural remedy. Using something like sesame or coconut oil, they swish the oil around in their mouth for about 15 minutes then spit it out. The thought process is that the oil will absorb toxins and keep the mouth healthy.

Will It Whiten Your Teeth?

It’s unlikely. It could lift some surface stains, but so will brushing regularly. If you are looking to get rid of stains that have gone beyond the surface of your teeth, the only way to do that is through a teeth whitening procedure that uses a special type of gel containing either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These will sink deep into the teeth opening up the tubules and allowing the peroxide to oxidize all those years of accumulated stains. Nothing else will do the same thing.

Will it Do Any Harm?

On balance, no. There are some precautions to take. Make sure your oils are not expired or caustic. Never swallow the oil. Other than that, you just don’t want to ignore your regular oral health care such as brushing, flossing, and check ups with your dentist. Oil pulling does not replace those.

This blog is brought to you by Duluth, GA Dentist Dr. David Marion.