What Is Oil Pulling? What Does Oil Pulling Do, Is It Beneficial?

Key Takeaways
  • Oil pulling is a traditional Indian method using oils like coconut, sesame or sunflower to remove bacteria.
  • It involves swishing 1 tablespoon of oil in the mouth for 15–20 minutes, then spitting it out.
  • Some studies suggest it may reduce bacteria and bad breath, but there’s no proof it whitens teeth.
  • Risks include jaw fatigue, aspiration, nausea, digestive issues, and allergic reactions.
  • Oil pulling can be a supplement but should not replace brushing, flossing, or professional dental care.
Dt. Göker TAŞKINSU
Written by DentAkademi Editorial Team
Medically reviewed by Dt. Göker TAŞKINSU
Last updated:

Oil pulling is a traditional method originating from India to support oral health. But does it really work? What does scientific research say? We’ve thoroughly examined the effects of oil pulling on teeth whitening, bad breath, and cavities.

What Is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling, also known as oil swishing or oil gargling, is a traditional oral hygiene method. Practiced in India for thousands of years, this technique typically involves natural oils such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil. It works on the principle of trapping and removing bacteria from the mouth. However, dentists emphasize that this method should not replace conventional oral care practices.

How Is Oil Pulling Done?

Oil pulling is a fairly simple process. After choosing an oil, take 1 tablespoon of it into your mouth. Swish the oil around your mouth and between your teeth for 15-20 minutes. Spit out the oil afterward and rinse your mouth with water. People who practice oil pulling often do it in the morning on an empty stomach.

What Oils Are Used for Oil Pulling?

For oil pulling, cold-pressed and organic oils are typically preferred. Coconut oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, and olive oil are commonly used.

  • Coconut oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
  • Sesame oil: Widely used in traditional Ayurvedic practices.
  • Sunflower oil: Used as an alternative oil to clean bacteria from the mouth.
  • Olive oil: Claimed to reduce gum sensitivity due to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Is Oil Pulling Scientifically Proven?

Although oil pulling is a traditionally used method for oral health, it remains controversial due to limited scientific research. Some experts stress that it is not an alternative to traditional tooth brushing and flossing.
A 2016 study revealed that coconut oil can reduce Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria responsible for tooth decay. However, this study did not compare it to conventional oral care methods.
According to a 2017 study, oil pulling may reduce bad breath similarly to chlorhexidine mouthwashes. However, these findings come from small-scale studies, and more comprehensive research is needed.
There is no scientific evidence that oil pulling whitens teeth. Likewise, there are no studies proving it prevents cavities, plaque buildup, or gum disease.

Is Oil Pulling Harmful? Things to Watch Out For

When practicing oil pulling, inhaling the oil poses an aspiration risk. Nausea, digestive issues, and allergic reactions may also occur.
Potential risks of oil pulling include:

  • Mouth muscle fatigue and pain: Constantly swishing oil in the mouth can lead to jaw muscle pain and fatigue. This method may be uncomfortable for individuals with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
  • Aspiration risk: Accidentally inhaling oil while swishing it for a long time (aspiration) can lead to serious health issues. This is particularly risky for the elderly, children, and individuals with weak swallowing reflexes.
  • Nausea and digestive issues: Holding oils like coconut oil in the mouth for extended periods can cause nausea in some people. If accidentally swallowed, it may lead to digestive discomfort.
  • Allergic reactions: Oils like sesame, coconut, or sunflower oil may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms such as itching, rashes, or difficulty breathing may occur, requiring immediate medical attention.

Conclusion: Is Oil Pulling Safe?

Oil pulling may serve as a simple supplementary oral care routine for some people. However, it should not replace scientifically proven dental cleaning methods. Individuals with dental or gum issues are advised to consult a dentist first. It is not recommended for people with TMJ disorders, oil allergies, respiratory conditions, children, the elderly, or those with digestive sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Oil Pulling

What Does Oil Pulling Mean?

Oil pulling is a method of swishing oil in the mouth for a set period. Aimed at supporting oral hygiene, it is particularly used in traditional Ayurveda in India.

There is no sufficient scientific evidence proving that it strengthens tooth enamel.

Oil pulling may reduce plaque formation but cannot remove existing tartar. Tartar removal requires a visit to the dentist.

Some users claim oil pulling reduces bad breath and improves oral hygiene, but scientific studies show it cannot replace traditional oral care routines.

Prolonged swishing can tire jaw muscles, accidental swallowing may cause stomach discomfort, and inhalation could lead to lung issues. It should not replace traditional brushing and flossing.

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