Is Coconut Oil Good for Teeth?

Is Coconut Oil Good for Teeth?

Coconut oil is extracted from the fruit of the coconut palm. It's rich in fatty acids, making it popular for cosmetic purposes.

The tradition of oil mouthwashing originated in India. According to Ayurveda, all the body's bacteria and toxins are concentrated in the mouth, and oil pulling helps remove them. Ayurveda doctor F. Karach was the first to use oil pulling in his medical practice in the 1990s.

He claimed that coconut oil can prevent digestive problems, cleanse the body of toxins, and remove plaque from teeth. Additionally, it can strengthen gums, eliminate bad breath, and even cure allergies.

Does Coconut Oil Really Help Remove Plaque?

Dentists have mixed opinions about the benefits of coconut oil.

Coconut Oil vs. Bacteria

Streptococcus mutans is one of the main bacteria in the oral cavity that provokes plaque formation and tooth decay. In 2016, a study was conducted to compare the effects of coconut oil and chlorhexidine in combating Streptococcus mutans bacteria. As a result of the study, both helped to reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans bacteria in the mouth.

The data from this study is not enough to draw accurate conclusions. Bacteria are complex organisms with a distinct protective cell wall that even antibiotics struggle to break through. Coconut oil forms a film on teeth that temporarily slows bacterial growth. But bacterial colonies recover very quickly when enzymes from saliva break down the oil.

Some sources claim that coconut oil can kill viruses, fungi and bacteria due to its monolaurin content, a compound derived from lauric acid. Studies on mice show that monolaurin can indeed protect against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (responsible for some staph infections). In the study, scientists found no antibacterial effect from refined coconut oil or virgin coconut oil.

The American Dental Association (ADA) believes that coconut oil has no practical benefit to the body. Right now, there is not enough hard data to prove otherwise.

Will Coconut Oil Freshen My Breath?

Bad breath is caused by untreated gum disease, tooth decay, and gastrointestinal diseases. Theoretically, coconut oil does have the ability to isolate the release of bad breath by forming a film. This is a temporary effect that will last from 10 minutes to an hour.

Oral deodorants have a similar effect. As soon as saliva washes away the film, the odor immediately returns.

Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

Influencers often refer to whitening as removing surface impurities, specifically removing the organic film on the teeth (pellicle) that can be stained by coffee or tea. This can only be removed with the use of abrasives and whitening pastes. Or with professional hygiene at the dentist's office.

Many people believe that coconut oil makes teeth whiter. Coconut oil has no whitening properties. But when people apply coconut oil to their teeth, they begin to pay more attention to their oral hygiene. They scrutinize their teeth and gums, so they notice positive changes.

If you dream of a whiter smile, pay attention to more effective and proven methods. Before using teeth whitening products, it is essential to consult with a dentist who can help you achieve the desired effect without compromising your health.

Australian dentists have also questioned the effectiveness of coconut oil. They suggested that the popularization of coconut oil as a teeth whitening product is a marketing ploy.

What Do Dentists Recommend?

The effectiveness of oil rinses has not been scientifically proven, so dentists recommend caution. Coconut oil has become a popular ingredient in the oral care industry. If you are interested in gentle oral care, coconut oil is a great addition to your basic oral hygiene routine.

 

How to Use Coconut Oil for Extra Dental Hygiene

• Rinse your mouth with water upon waking.
• Use a tongue scraper to clean your tongue if there's visible plaque.
• Brush your teeth as you usually would.
• Take a spoonful of coconut oil; it will melt in your mouth.
• Swish the oil around, moving it through your teeth.
• Continue for 15-20 minutes until the oil thickens.
• Spit the oil into a garbage can to avoid clogging the drain. Do not swallow the oil.

Rinsing for 15-20 minutes can be challenging at first. Start with three minutes and gradually increase the time. You can do this while showering or preparing breakfast.

Here is When It Is Not Recommended to Use Coconut Oil

• If you have TMJ problems, avoid rinsing with coconut oil. Vigorous rinsing for 15 minutes can strain your joints, leading to headaches, neck pain, or jaw pain.
• Do not rinse your mouth with coconut oil after tooth extractions or during the acute stage of stomatitis.
• Some people may experience discomfort when rinsing, as the thick texture of the oil can cause nausea or even vomiting.

Remember, rinsing with coconut oil is an additional hygiene procedure. Use coconut oil carefully and follow basic oral hygiene practices to minimize potential adverse effects.