An ancient medical remedy, oil pulling therapy is all about swishing oil around in the mouth. According to literature accompanying this ancient technique, the process is said to be beneficial for oral health and useful as a method for treating some systemic illness such as: asthma, sinus infection and diabetes.

The Procedure Used in Oil Pulling Therapy

  1. The process involves putting one tablespoon full of oil in the mouth and rinsing. There are antibacterial properties in these oils. While rinsing, the oil should be moved slowly around the mouth so that all surfaces are covered. The procedure should be undertaken for around five to twenty minutes. In theory, the oil 'pulls' bacteria, toxins, and waste from the mouth and body on its travels. These bad elements are collected in the oil and expelled from the body. The oil increasingly gets thinner as you keep swishing and rinsing. When the oil gets has a yellow-like color, it means it has not been at work for long enough. When finished, the mouth should be thoroughly rinsed out with water.   
  2. Where oil pulling therapy is used for healing, it should be done in the morning before your breakfast. Oil pulling should also be done at night before bedtime if you are treating a dry mouth problem. For dry mouth, the process should be repeated three times each day before meals to speed up healing. If you are thinking of using oil pulling at night for a dry mouth, then you should floss and brush beforehand. After that, swish some oil to keep your throat hydrated. Carrying out this procedure will also help to moisten oral tissues. Oil pulling therapy is also known to maintain the teeth in a whiter state.   

Are There Any Side Effects to Oil Pulling Therapy?

The practice of oil pulling is entirely harmless and no undesirable side effects are known. Following oil pulling therapy, the mouth should be thoroughly rinsed out and the teeth brushed to combat toxins. However, you don't need to brush or rinse after oil pulling at night because the therapy helps to hydrate the mouth and throat. It is best not to spit the left-over oil into the sink because residue can collect in the basin and drain. 

Conclusion

Oil pulling is an ancient therapy that many have used with no ill effects. When the initial strange sensation of swishing oil in your mouth passes, the process gets easier. It is certainly an option worth considering if you like natural remedies or when other conventional treatments aren't working. Click here for more general dentistry information.

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