Advantages of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil You Should Know
You know, when you come across one of those natural health things that just sounds too simple to actually work? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I heard about the advantages of oil pulling with coconut oil.
But then… curiosity got the best of me. And honestly? After giving it a real shot, I get why so many people swear by it.
Today I’m diving into the real, down-to-earth advantages of oil pulling with coconut oil — what it actually does, why coconut oil makes a difference, and how it’s become a staple in my natural oral care routine. I do oil pulling in the morning and keep my mouth spray handy during the day for quick breath refreshes without synthetic chemicals.
If you’re looking for a gentle, natural way to upgrade your oral health without loading up on harsh mouthwashes or complicated routines, you’re going to want to keep reading. Once I’m done with oil pulling, I rinse with my homemade mouthwash to wash away any leftover oil and give my breath a boost.
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is a time-tested method that involves oil swishing—basically swishing edible oil around your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes, then spitting it out. That’s it. It may sound simple, but it’s a powerful method for improving your oral hygiene routine and supporting your dental health overall.
Traditionally, oils like sesame oil and sunflower oil were used in ancient Ayurvedic practice, but in recent years, coconut oil pulling has become a favorite thanks to its natural antibacterial properties and sweet, mild taste.
Coconut oil has become the go-to oil for most people today, and for good reason (we’ll get to that in a second!).
Why Coconut Oil?
Out of all the oils you could use, coconut oil stands out for a bunch of reasons.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid known for its strong antimicrobial properties and ability to combat harmful oral bacteria like Streptococcus mutans—the main culprit behind plaque formation, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Unlike chlorhexidine mouthwash, which can cause adverse effects like staining and dry mouth, virgin coconut oil is a natural alternative that works gently while still offering significant reduction in bacterial growth. And if you’re someone who deals with bad breath, that’s one of the first things to improve when you start pulling—fresher breath comes fast when your oral cavity is getting a gentle daily cleanse.
It also tastes a whole lot better than swishing sesame oil for 20 minutes (trust me on that one).
Coconut oil is naturally soothing, doesn’t burn your mouth, and is super gentle on sensitive gums — which makes it perfect for a daily or even weekly oral care boost.
The Benefits of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
The benefits of oil pulling go far beyond a brighter smile—though let’s be honest, that part is lovely too. Here’s what you’ll notice, given time, consistency, and the right oil:
- Healthier gums with less gum inflammation
- A noticeable drop in plaque buildup
- Protection against tooth decay and dental caries
- Whiter teeth and a naturally brighter smile
- Relief for dry mouth, especially when oil pulling increases saliva production
- Fewer food particles lingering between brushings
- A boost to your overall health through a cleaner oral cavity
Studies (including scientific research and systematic reviews) have shown that regular oil pulling can reduce s. mutans, combat candida albicans, and help support a healthy mouth—though most admit small sample sizes and recommend more scientific evidence. Still, those potential benefits are enough for me to keep swishing!
How I Personally Use Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling
Here’s exactly how I work oil pulling into my routine without it feeling like a big deal:
- I do it first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking anything.
- I scoop about 1 tablespoon of oil (coconut oil for me) and pop it into my mouth.
- I gently swish it around for 10–15 minutes (sometimes while getting ready, answering emails, or tidying up). This oil is drawing out toxins and different types of bacteria. The surface area of the oil will help trap unwanted particles.
- I spit it out into a trash can (not the sink — coconut oil can clog pipes over time!). Rinse with warm water or antibacterial mouthwash.
- Then I go back to regular brushing.
- And brushing, I sometimes follow with my Natural Mouth Rinse — it’s super gentle, alcohol-free, and leaves my mouth feeling fresh without the sting of store-bought mouthwash
If you’re just starting out, even 5 minutes of swishing is great. You can work your way up as you get used to it.
Top 3 Reasons to Start Oil Pulling Today
1. A Brighter, Healthier Smile—Naturally
If you’re dreaming of a brighter smile without spending a fortune on cosmetic dentistry, oil pulling is such a gentle and effective option. Swishing virgin coconut oil daily helps break down plaque buildup and surface stains that come from coffee, tea, or just everyday eating.
Unlike bleach-based whiteners that can cause sensitivity and gum inflammation, oil pulling works gradually and kindly—leaving you with whiter teeth and healthier gums over time. Plus, that clean, polished feeling after each pull? It’s kind of addictive in the best way.
2. Natural Defense Against Bacteria
Your mouth is home to different types of bacteria—some helpful, some not so much. Coconut oil pulling creates a natural barrier that traps and removes the unwanted guests like Streptococcus mutans, one of the main culprits behind plaque formation, tooth decay, and bad breath.
The key? Coconut oil’s high lauric acid content, which gives it powerful antimicrobial properties. By adding oil pulling to your oral hygiene routine, you’re giving your body an extra line of defense that works with your saliva production and natural detox process—without harsh chemicals or antibacterial mouthwash side effects.
3. Whole-Body Benefits from the Mouth Out
We often think of the mouth as separate from the rest of the body, but more and more scientific research shows how deeply connected oral health is to your overall health. Poor oral hygiene and plaque-induced gingivitis can lead to chronic inflammation that affects more than just your teeth.
There are links between gum disease and heart disease, and some even connect oral bacteria to conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Oil pulling offers a natural way to reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your oral cavity, which can lower inflammation and support systemic health from the inside out. It’s like a morning detox—starting right at your smile.
Shop This Post – Advantages of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
Here are the things I personally keep on hand for oil pulling and my natural oral care routine. These are simple, affordable, and have made the whole process super easy and enjoyable.
- Organic Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil
- This is the heart of my oil pulling routine. I always look for organic, unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil — it’s clean, smells amazing, and melts super easily. I keep a small jar in the bathroom just for oral care.
- Glass Storage Jar with Lid
- I like keeping a small glass jar with a spoon near my sink just for oil pulling. It makes it easier to scoop a tablespoon without double-dipping into my cooking coconut oil.
- Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper
- Not totally necessary, but I use this right after oil pulling before brushing. It helps get any extra gunk off your tongue and keeps your breath extra fresh.
- Bamboo Toothbrushes
- I switched to bamboo brushes a while back and haven’t looked back. They’re gentle on the gums, and I just love knowing I’m creating less waste.
FAQ – Advantages of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
How long should I oil pull each day to see the advantages of oil pulling with coconut oil?
Most people start with 5–10 minutes and work up to 15–20 minutes. I usually aim for 10–15 minutes, especially first thing in the morning before breakfast.
Do I still need to brush my teeth after oil pulling?
Yes! Oil pulling helps loosen up bacteria and debris, but brushing and flossing are still important. Think of oil pulling as a gentle, natural pre-clean.
How often should I oil pull to see the advantages of oil pulling with coconut oil?
You can do it daily, but even 3–4 times a week makes a difference. I personally do it about 4 times a week, and that rhythm works really well for me.
Can I use other oils besides coconut?
Definitely. Sesame oil and sunflower oil are traditional in Ayurveda, and some people like olive oil too. But I’ve found coconut oil to be the easiest to work with (and the most pleasant-tasting!).
Is it safe to swallow the oil?
Nope — don’t swallow it. Once you’re done swishing, spit it out into a trash can (not the sink, it can clog pipes) and rinse your mouth with water before brushing.
Can oil pulling really whiten teeth?
It won’t bleach your teeth like whitening strips, but it can gently reduce surface stains over time by removing buildup and bacteria. I’ve definitely noticed my teeth look brighter and feel smoother since starting.
Is oil pulling safe for kids?
Oil pulling is safe, but most kids don’t love swishing oil in their mouths for that long. If you try it with older kids or teens, start with just a teaspoon and a couple of minutes max, then build up as they’re comfortable.
Advantages of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil For Oral Care
But if you’ve got little ones (like me), pets, or you just prefer to keep things simple and natural, those store-bought cleaners with toxic fumes are kind of the worst. That’s where these DIY toilet bowl bombs come in — they’re cute, they fizz like bath bombs, and they actually work.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Organic Cold Press Coconut Oil
Instructions
Here’s exactly how I work oil pulling into my routine without it feeling like a big deal:
- I do it first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking anything.
- I scoop about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and pop it into my mouth.
- I gently swish it around for 10–15 minutes (sometimes while getting ready, answering emails, or tidying up).
- I spit it out into a trash can (not the sink — coconut oil can clog pipes over time!).
- Then I brush my teeth like normal.
If you’re just starting out, even 5 minutes of swishing is great. You can work your way up as you get used to it.
Final Thoughts – Advantages of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil For Oral Care
If you’ve been curious about trying oil pulling, I honestly can’t recommend it enough.
The advantages of oil pulling with coconut oil are simple but powerful: healthier gums, fresher breath, a naturally brighter smile, and better oral health — all from something you probably already have in your kitchen.
It’s one of those easy, old-school natural practices that just makes sense once you get into the rhythm of it.
Internal Links You’ll Love (Oral Care Edition)
- Natural Mouth Rinse – Easy Homemade Mouthwash Recipe – Use this after oil pulling for that minty clean finish.
- Homemade Tooth Powder – Natural & Whitening – A natural brushing option to pair with oil pulling.
- Whitening Toothpaste Made With Natural Ingredients – Keep the whitening going with this gentle, brightening toothpaste.
- Homemade Mouth Spray – Fresh Breath On the Go – For a boost of fresher breath anytime, anywhere.
Give it a try for a few weeks and see what you notice — your mouth (and your dentist) might just thank you.
