Prevent Tooth Decay With Coconut Oil
Written by Dr. Nayansi Jha and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
Dental caries or tooth decay is a very common problem for adults and children these days. Our food habits are such that they include a wide variety of junk food and super-rich carbohydrates.
Coconut oil has been in use since ancient times for a wide variety of reasons, primarily for good hair growth. However, this oil has its use in dental care also. Traditionally referred to as "oil pulling", the technique requires you to swish the oil inside your mouth for a few minutes and spit it out when it turns milky white. The longer you push and pull the oil in the mouth, the more microbes are released free.
Coconut oil has an effect on bacteria when used as a mouth rinse or as a natural toothpaste. Streptococcus bacteria, a common inhabitant of the human mouth, is responsible for most of the damage and decay of teeth. Researchers have conducted a series of tests that support the antibacterial qualities of coconut oil against strains of Streptococci.
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Benefits of Coconut Oil:
Benefits of coconut oil include combating the following dental problems.
- Halitosis (bad breath).
- Reduces gingivitis (swelling of gums).
- Makes it easier to use floss between the teeth for removal of food particles.
Mechanism of Action:
Most microorganisms inhabiting the mouth consist of a single cell. These cells are covered with a lipid (fat) layer which when comes into contact with oil in the mouth; adheres to it. So, microorganisms get washed away easily.
Oil Pulling Technique:
Swish a teaspoonful of oil for 10 to 20 minutes and spit it when it turns milky white. Do not swallow. You can start with small amounts for a few minutes (around 5 minutes) initially and then increase the time gradually. There are no side effects.
Are you suffering from bad breath or tooth decay? Consult a dentist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/dentist
Last reviewed at: 05.Feb.2019RATING
Related Questions & Answers
Query: Hello doctor, I want to ask about halitosis. I already went to the dentist and the dentist said that the problem is not in the mouth and it could be in my stomach so here I am. I hope you can help me because I am at my wit's end right now. How do I know if it is in the stomach? What should I do? I ... Read Full »
General Medicine Physician
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. Halitosis or bad breath usually originates from oral or nasal passages. The cause of it is bacterial decay of residual food and debris. Most common causes of halitosis are periodontal diseases, dental caries, oral cavity infection, and coated or uncleaned tongue or decr... Read Full »
Query: Hi doctor, My gums are itchy after eating. I used mouthwash. After using it, I usually rinse my mouth with water. I started to have a burning sensation in my gums after using mouthwash. But still, my gums are itchy. Read Full »
Dentist
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. You have gingivitis. You have itching sensation after having meals is because of the periodontal pocket presenting with a gap between the teeth and gums. Please mention about the mouthwash used whether it is Chlorhexidine or H2O2 (Hydrogen peroxide). If you use H2O2, it... Read Full »
Query: Hello doctor, I have acid erosion or decay in the back of my bottom front teeth. They are chipping at the gumline. I have a past history of bulimia and although after years I have finally recovered. Long ago, I have had decay in the back row. What is a good home remedy for now that I can use? I am ... Read Full »
Dentist
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. I have gone through your question. I can understand your concern. I will recommend you to brush your teeth twice daily after breakfast and before going to bed. You can visit a dentist but keep in mind do not go for any X-ray but there is no problem with filling (dental ... Read Full »