Are you interested in natural health remedies? If so, you have probably heard about oil pulling. Proponents claim that it comes with a multitude of benefits for oral health, but some people are skeptical about it. Is it worth a try for your family, and is it a safe practice for kids? This blog post explains what you should know.
What Is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that originated in India. It involves swishing oil — usually coconut, sesame, or sunflower — around the mouth for 15 – 20 minutes. Yes, you just need to grab a tablespoon of oil and give your mouth a little workout. The goal? To “pull” out bacteria and toxins, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Some folks make oil pulling part of their daily routine, typically in the morning before eating or drinking. While it may sound a bit odd, this natural method has been gaining popularity around the world.
The Pros and Cons of Oil Pulling
You might wonder, does oil pulling really deliver the results people rave about? Like most things, it has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here is a breakdown of its pros and cons:
Pros:
- It may help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.
- It could lead to fresher breath — no need for breath mints!
- It might support gum health and decrease plaque buildup.
- It is super easy to try at home with basic ingredients.
Cons:
- Oil pulling is not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing.
- It can be challenging for some children to swish oil for a long time.
- There is no strong scientific evidence for all its claimed benefits.
- Accidentally swallowing excessive amounts of oil can cause an upset stomach.
While some studies suggest oil pulling can improve oral hygiene, dental experts agree that traditional brushing and flossing remain essential. Oil pulling should be seen as an added bonus, not a replacement for other parts of an oral hygiene routine!
Should Your Kids Try It?
Now comes the big question: Is oil pulling a good fit for your little ones? Here are a few things to consider before jumping in:
- Oil pulling requires swishing for up to 20 minutes. Younger kids may not have the patience or coordination for this.
- If swallowed, oil can cause tummy troubles. Always supervise and teach kids to spit out the oil properly.
- Children with allergies to coconut, sesame, or sunflower should avoid this practice altogether.
If your child is old enough and can follow instructions, oil pulling could be a fun experiment to try together. If you want to give it a go, start with just a few minutes each day.
Oil pulling is unlikely to cause any harm, but there is not much evidence to support its benefits. Still, you might decide that it is worth a try for your family!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Adrienne is a board-certified pediatric dentist who enjoys working with kids and their families. Under her leadership, our Aledo team offers a range of services, and we are always happy to chat with parents about how they can help their children establish healthy habits for a lifetime of strong smiles. To learn more about us or to request an appointment for your little one, contact our office at 817-383-2576.