Oil Pulling – My New Morning Routine?

How would you like to wake up, and the first thing you reach for is a big ol’ spoonful of oil to swish around in your mouth for your first waking 20 minutes?  Well, that’s what I have been doing for about a month now! 

If you have been anywhere on the internet this last month, you have more than likely seen something about “oil pulling”. According to Wikipedia, “[ancient] Ayurvedic literature states oil pulling is capable of improving oral and systemic health, including a benefit in conditions such as headaches, migraines, diabetes, mellitus, asthma, and acne, as well as whitening teeth.” 

Whiten teeth naturally?  That’s what caught my eye!  I read that several types of oils can be used, like sesame, olive, or coconut.  (organic)  So for the last month, I rise and shine, grab a tablespoon of coconut oil, set the timer on my phone, and swish away!  It’s easy to fit it into a regular morning routine; swish while responding to emails, brewing the coffee, showering, or studying God’s word.  When the timer goes off, just spit it out into the garbage then brush as usual.  You wouldn’t want it going down the drain because as the oil cools, it will harden in the pipes.

I definitely think my teeth are whiter!  Also, I have a lingual wire (fixed retainer) on my lower teeth.  The wire is so thick, and this area is always susceptible to plaque build-up.  Well, this area has been much smoother to floss lately.  And after spending years in the dental industry, I know heart disease has been linked to one’s oral health, so it all kinda makes sense to me.

What about you?  Are you one to try it?