Oil pulling and teeth is a popular topic online. Oil pulling means swishing a spoonful of edible oil, usually coconut or sesame, around the mouth for several minutes and then spitting it out. It is claimed to whiten teeth, remove plaque and improve gum health. This guide looks at what it is and what the evidence shows.
What is oil pulling?
Oil pulling is a traditional practice from India. About a tablespoon of oil is moved around the mouth and between the teeth for up to 20 minutes, then spat out. People who do it usually do so once a day before brushing.
Does oil pulling work?
There is no good-quality evidence that oil pulling whitens teeth, prevents decay or treats gum disease. Some small studies have reported less plaque after oil pulling, but they were short, involved few people and were not well designed. Dental associations do not recommend oil pulling as a replacement for brushing and cleaning between the teeth.
Is oil pulling harmful?
Swishing oil is unlikely to harm your teeth. The risks are indirect:
- relying on it in place of brushing with fluoride toothpaste, which lets decay and gum disease progress
- an upset stomach if the oil is swallowed
- in rare cases, breathing oil into the lungs
- blocked drains if the oil is spat into the sink
What works better?
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth once a day. See should you floss before or after brushing?.
- Limit sugary and acidic food and drink.
- Have a check-up and professional clean every six to twelve months.
- For whiter teeth, start with a professional clean and ask about whitening. See how to remove stains from teeth.
FAQs
Can oil pulling replace brushing?
No. Nothing replaces brushing with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth.
Does oil pulling whiten teeth?
There is no good evidence that it does. It cannot bleach teeth.
Can oil pulling reverse cavities?
No. A cavity needs to be treated by a dental practitioner.
Check-ups in Penrith
If you have questions about looking after your teeth at home, ask at your next visit. Book a check-up at Penrith Dental Care.
This article is general information only and does not replace an assessment with a registered dental practitioner.
Looking for more dental health tips? Browse all articles on the Penrith Dental Care blog, or meet the Penrith Dental Care team. Have a question? See our dental FAQ.
Reviewed by Mina Gibryal, Penrith Dental Care, October 2026. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own dental practitioner.