Teeth whitening using coconut oil is known as oil pulling, a natural and traditional technique for detoxifying the mouth and improving oral health. This method involves swishing coconut oil in the mouth to remove bacteria, reduce stains, and promote overall dental hygiene.
Oil Pulling Process
To practice oil pulling:
- Take 1-2 teaspoons of organic coconut oil (you may add an antibacterial ingredient like clove oil for additional benefits).
- Swish the oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes, ensuring it reaches all parts of your teeth and gums.
- Spit out the oil—by this point, it should appear creamy white due to the toxins it has absorbed.
- Do not swallow the oil, as it contains bacteria and impurities from your mouth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water and follow up by brushing your teeth.
While oil pulling is effective for teeth whitening, it also helps with wisdom tooth pain relief. Wisdom teeth often cause discomfort due to inflammation or bacterial buildup. The antibacterial properties of coconut oil can help reduce swelling, fight infections, and provide temporary pain relief. Additionally, people who experience a tooth with filling that hurts years later may benefit from oil pulling, as it helps maintain oral hygiene and reduces bacterial growth around old fillings.
Tips for Preventing Teeth Discoloration
After whitening your teeth, it’s important to maintain their brightness by following these tips:
- Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato sauce.
- Use a straw when drinking beverages that may stain your teeth.
- Quit smoking, as tobacco leads to severe teeth discoloration and other health issues.
- Chew food properly to ensure no food particles remain on the teeth.
- Brush your teeth at night to remove food residues that can cause staining.
- Avoid habits like nail-biting and using teeth to open bottles, as they can damage the enamel.
- Avoid drug consumption, as many chemicals in drugs can erode enamel and cause discoloration.
Other Whitening Methods
If discoloration persists, additional whitening treatments include:
- Whitening Mouthwash – Swishing with a whitening mouthwash can help maintain a brighter smile.
- Whitening Toothpaste – Brushing daily with a whitening toothpaste containing active whitening agents can gradually restore the natural color of your teeth.
By incorporating coconut oil pulling into your routine and following proper oral care practices, you can achieve whiter, healthier teeth while also addressing issues like wisdom tooth pain and maintaining the longevity of dental fillings.
