Many patients have been asking me to write my thoughts regarding pulling coconut oil for the purpose of whitening teeth. Some have asked for the purpose of a holistic approach for cavity prevention. While I do not think it should be used in place of regular homecare, I do think that pulling coconut oil can be added to daily brushing and flossing.
So, if you are already brushing two minutes, twice a day, and flossing daily with string floss, then here are your guidelines for the addition of pulling coconut oil:
– Use only refined coconut oil.
– Swish gently. If your jaw aches after five minutes, you are swishing too vigorously. The benefits of coconut pulling are not realized unless you swish for 20 minutes, three times per week. (You can begin with 10 minutes, three times per week.)
– Do not swallow the oil while swishing. If this is difficult, you are using too much oil. Expectorate and try again with less.
– At the end of the 20 minutes, spit into the trash. Do not spit in the sink or toilet. You will clog your plumbing.
– Do not drink anything prior to pulling with the coconut oil, and be sure to rinse with water prior to consuming any beverages afterward.
