New science is confirming what the ancient healers have known for centuries: that the health of your gums, teeth and mouth affects the health of your whole body. Researchers have found that infection and inflammation in the mouth increases levels of pro-inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein in blood circulation. This triggers body-wide inflammation that has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illness and osteoporosis.
Even healthy-looking teeth and gums can harbor bacteria in tooth pores, under a crown or filling, in a seemingly clean root canal or in the space of a missing tooth. “These bacteria may even be hidden from dentists’ best detection techniques such as X-rays,” says Dr. Nunnally,D.D.S., a holistic dentist in Marble Falls, Texas.
The best way to dislodge sneaky bacteria is with oil pulling, say proponents of the ayurvedic technique that uses oil to cleanse the mouth and detoxify the body. “The fatty outer membranes of microbes and other toxins are attracted to the oil, so the oil acts as a magnet, pulling gunk out of every crevice and pre of your teeth, gums and tongue,” explains holisic nutritionist Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Fat Flush for Life (DaCapo Lifelong Books, 2009). Studies have found that oil puling does such a good job of removing bacteria that it reduces gingivitis by up to 60%. In fact, oil pulling was found to be four times more effective than mouthwash at reducing gingivitis. Many “oil pullers” have reported benefits such as:
- more energy
- better sleep
- improved immunity
- whiter teeth
- clearer skin, greater control over cravings
- relief from GI symptoms
- less pain
- a smoother transition through menopause
It is very easy to practice. Just microwave 2 to 3 tsp. of solid, unrefined sesame oil 
or coconut oil in a shot glass for 5 seconds, then pour it into your mouth. Swish the sesame or cocnut oil around in your mouth, pushing, pulling and sucking it between your teeth and your gums and over the tongue for 10 to 20 minutes. Next, spit out the bacteria-laden oil (it should look cloudy) and rinse with water. Dr. Nunnally recommends oil pulling daily. But, if you have mercury fillings in your teeth, don’t do it more than twice per week, cautions naturopathic physician Carolyn Dean, M.D., N.D., who teaches the benefits of oil pulling and other healthy-living strategies in her Future Health Now Wellness Program. The reason for this is that the technique may extract too many vapors, which can be inhaled, leading to mercur-related health problems. So, if you’re like me and have 14-15 mercury (silver) fillings in your mouth, BE CAREFUL!
People who have tried this oil pulling technique once every night (before bedtime), report pinker, healthier gums, decrease in post-nasal drip and much whiter teeth. Leave it to the ancient science of Ayurveda!