Coconut oil pulling, also known as oil pulling, is being applied by many people with the belief of helping to whiten teeth, reduce plaque and "detoxify" the mouth. In many families, this habit is passed down as a cheap, easy-to-make solution. However, according to health experts, coconut oil is not a "medicine", and there are groups of people who should absolutely not apply this method.
Who should stay away from mouthwashing with coconut oil?
First of all, people with serious oral diseases, such as periodontitis, tooth decay or severe tooth decay. Coconut oil has no effect on treating these diseases. Delaying dental check-ups because of belief in folk tips can cause inflammation to spread, causing pain that lasts longer and costs more money later.
People at risk of strong breathing, including young children, the elderly or people with swallowing problems, should also not try oil pulling. Holding the oil in your mouth for 10-20 minutes increases the risk of oil getting into your airway, which can lead to Pneumonia, a dangerous complication.
In addition, people who are allergic to coconuts or coconut products should absolutely avoid them. Although rare, allergic reactions can still occur, ranging from itchy mouth, swollen lips to difficulty breathing.
When natural habits become health risks
A common misconception is that coconut oil can replace toothpaste and mouthwash. In fact, coconut oil does not contain fluoride, an important ingredient in preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel.
Oil pulling can help reduce dry mouth or remove part of the soft plaque, but it can not replace brushing with fluoride and flossing every day, says Dr Matthew Messina, a dentist and clinical lecturer at Ohio State University (USA).
He also emphasized that requiring coconut oil in your mouth too often or doing it incorrectly can cause nausea and digestive disorders, especially if you accidentally swallow the oil.
In family life, sharing health care tips is understandable. However, it is this unverified spread that causes many people, especially women and the elderly, to ignore scientifically proven oral care methods.
Experts recommend that if you want to try oil pulling, you should only consider this as a supplementary measure, not applicable to young children and not replace basic oral hygiene habits. More importantly, when there are dental problems, it is necessary to talk directly to your dentist for appropriate advice.
Health, whether personal or family, should not be based on online trends. What is natural is not necessarily safe for everyone.
