Coconut oil contains high levels of lauric acid - a medium-chain fatty acid with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Coconut oil also contains antioxidant compounds that help protect gum tissue.
According to studies published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information, lauric acid has the ability to inhibit bacteria that cause tooth decay and gingivitis.
Bad breath mainly originates from bacteria in the oral cavity that create volatile sulfur compounds.
When rinsing your mouth with coconut oil, the oil layer can "roll" out bacteria and plaque from the surface of teeth and gums. Lauric acid in coconut oil helps inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
Gumitis is a factor contributing to bad breath. Coconut oil with anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling, redness and bleeding gums.
According to the National Institutes of Health, controlling bacteria and inflammation in the oral cavity is an important factor in improving breathing.
Many people use coconut oil with the expectation of whitening teeth. However, it is necessary to distinguish:
Coconut oil does not contain bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide;
The whitening effect is mainly due to removing plaque on the surface of the teeth.
However, reducing plaque and bacteria can help teeth look brighter and cleaner over time.
Some small clinical studies show that coconut oil helps reduce plaque and bacteria after 2-4 weeks;
The effect is equivalent to mild levels with chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing gingivitis.
According to organizations such as the World Health Organization, effective oral care still needs to be based on basic measures such as fluoride cream brushing and regular dental check-ups.
You can prepare 1 spoon of pure coconut oil;
Rinse your mouth for 10-15 minutes in the morning;
Remove (not swallow) and rinse with clean water;
Brush your teeth as usual.
It can be done 3-4 times a week to support oral hygiene.
Note, do not replace brushing with coconut oil;
Do not swallow oil after rinsing as it may contain bacteria;
People with oral diseases should consult a dentist.
Overuse or excessive expectations of this method can cause users to ignore more effective oral care measures.
