Coconut Oil For Teeth Whitening: How To Use For Effective Result

Coconut oil is frequently found in herbal treatments and cosmetics. The inexpensive oil has also been advertised on the internet, and the current trend of using coconut oil for teeth whitening has become increasingly popular. The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities of coconut oil may aid in maintaining good oral hygiene. The fundamental question, though, is whether it actually works to whiten teeth as it says, or if it may simply be dismissed as an apparent myth. Let’s examine how coconut oil can help whiten teeth and whether the current trend is supported by any scientific evidence.

Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera L.) does not have any brightening benefits that can directly contribute to tooth whitening, although having antibacterial and antioxidant qualities.

While no conclusive research has demonstrated coconut oil’s effectiveness in lightening discolored teeth, evidence does support its effectiveness in reducing plaque development and treating dental conditions including gingivitis.

Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Teeth

1. Prevents Tooth Decay

   Cavities and tooth decay are primarily caused by common oral bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, which coconut oil helps eradicate.

2. Reduces Oral Odor

   Lauric acid, a component of coconut oil, gives it its antibacterial qualities. Helicobacter pylori, the microorganisms that contribute to halitosis (bad breath), may be inhibited by this saturated fat.

3. Treats Gingivitis

   Gingivitis, a gum condition that causes gum inflammation and irritation and, in extreme cases, can even cause tooth loss, may be treated with coconut oil.

4. Reduces Plaque Buildup And Tooth Sensitivity

   Coconut oil contains fatty acids with antimicrobial and antibacterial capabilities that get rid of oral germs in the mouth and stop plaque from forming. Reduced plaque accumulation could also lessen tooth sensitivity.

   You can have healthier gums and teeth by using coconut oil. Additionally, it can be used with other substances to whiten teeth. Surprised? Learn how to use coconut oil for whitening teeth by reading on.

How To Use Coconut Oil For Teeth Whitening

1. Coconut Oil And Baking Soda

   Due to its alkaline nature, baking soda can assist in reducing the intensity of acid-based food stains like those from tea, coffee, and red wine. This short fix might also successfully eliminate oral bacteria in the mouth (1).

   What You Need

   • 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
   • 1 tablespoon of baking soda
   • 1 toothbrush

   How to use

   1. Mix coconut oil and baking soda.
   2. Brush your teeth with the mixture for 3-4 minutes.
   3. Rinse with tepid water.
   4. Follow the procedure twice a week for visible results.

2. Coconut Oil Pulling

   Lauric acid, a component of coconut oil, kills oral bacteria that produce tenacious yellow plaque accumulation in the mouth. This age-old Ayurvedic method can assist maintain oral cleanliness by preventing the buildup of microorganisms (2).

   What You Need

   • 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
   • 1 toothbrush

   What To Do

   1. Put coconut oil in your mouth and wait a few seconds for it to melt.
   2. Swish the oil around for 15 to 20 minutes.
   3. Spit out the oil and brush your teeth.
   4. Repeat this process once daily or weekly.

3. Coconut Oil And Turmeric

   Curcumin, a naturally occurring substance found in turmeric, lessens inflammation, eliminates plaque, and aids in the prevention of gum illnesses like gingivitis (3).

   What You Need

   • ¼ teaspoon of organic turmeric powder
   • ⅛ teaspoon of coconut oil
   • 1 toothbrush
   • 1 tube of regular toothpaste

   How to Use effectively

   1. Mix turmeric powder and coconut oil.
   2. Apply the mixture onto your teeth and leave it on for three minutes.
   3. Gently brush and rinse off the paste with water.
   4. Finally, brush your teeth with regular toothpaste.
   5. Follow the procedure 1-2 times a week.

4. Coconut Oil And Activated Charcoal

   The removal of stains from the teeth may be aided by brushing with activated charcoal. The treatment is also effective on the dental resin utilized to fix cavities (4).

   What You Need

   • 1 tablespoon of powdered charcoal tablet
   • 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
   • 1 toothbrush

   Procedure

   1. Apply activated charcoal powder on a damp toothbrush and brush your teeth with it.
   2. Do this for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing your gums and teeth with coconut oil.
   3. Rinse off with lukewarm water.
   4. Follow the procedure once a week.

Note: Activated charcoal should not be used excessively as it may harm dental fillings. Don’t use it regularly, then.

Let’s take a quick look at coconut oil’s potential adverse effects and who should avoid it as not everyone can benefit from it.

Who Should Avoid Whitening Their Teeth With Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is safe and has no negative side effects. You should stop utilizing oil pulling right away if you have a coconut oil allergy or suffer any discomfort or inflammation while doing it. Additionally, coconut oil pulling is not advised for those with weak jaw muscles because it can further exhaust the muscles.

The Final Takeaway

Because of its numerous health and cosmetic advantages, coconut oil has long been one of the most popular oils in Indian households. It’s also a terrific addition to your daily routine, especially if you engage in coconut oil pulling, a fruitful Ayurvedic practice.

Plaque, gingivitis, and cavities may all be avoided with coconut oil. Even though it might not whiten teeth on its own, it blends well with other components and could help eliminate stains from teeth. To avoid problems, evaluate your allergies before using coconut oil and other components.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does it take for coconut oil pulling to whiten teeth?

You can see some color improvement in your teeth after one to two months of consistent coconut oil pulling practice.

•  Is olive oil better than coconut oil for teeth whitening?

Anecdotal evidence reveals that coconut oil, when used as a teeth whitening therapy instead of olive oil, produced greater outcomes and caused less plaque and gum inflammation after oil pulling.

• Can I apply coconut oil to my teeth overnight?

Yes. Any night of the week, you can use oil pulling and leave the oil on your teeth all night. It can ease painful gums and lessen plaque buildup.

• Can coconut oil replace brushing my teeth?

While coconut oil can aid in strengthening, nourishing, and protecting the teeth and gums, brushing is still necessary. You may prevent cavities by flossing and cleaning your teeth every day to eliminate food particles caught between your teeth.

• Can I use any type of coconut oil for teeth whitening?

To aid with teeth whitening, you can use cold-pressed or extra-virgin coconut oil.

• Is it safe to swallow coconut oil while using it for teeth whitening?

No, don’t ingest coconut oil because it is tainted with bacteria and could give you diarrhea or upset your stomach. To learn the proper and secure procedure, speak to your dentist.

Key Takeaways

1. When used alone, coconut oil might not whiten teeth.
2. Teeth whitening may be facilitated by combining coconut oil with additional substances like baking soda or turmeric powder.
3. It may be used to address typical gum issues such plaque accumulation, tooth decay, and foul breath as well as gingivitis (gum swelling).
4. Coconut oil supports and enhances oral hygiene because of its antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities.