Evaluation of the Effect of Oil Pulling

Evaluation of the Effect of Oil Pulling on Dental and Gingival Health

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the inhibitory effect on plaque and the tooth discoloration associated with agents used in the chemical plaque control of oil pulling in comparison with chlorhexidine-containing mouthwash and water in a four-day plaque regrowth model.

One hundred dentistry students were included in this randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled clinical study. In this study, participants were divided into 5 equal groups: Group 1: Gargling with 0.2% chlorhexidine; Group 2: Oil pulling with coconut oil; Group 3: Oil pulling with black cumin oil; Group 4: Oil pulling with terebinth oil; Group 4: Gargling with distilled water. Participants were instructed to refrain from mechanical oral hygiene and rinse only with the allocated mouth rinse during the four-day period. The differences in plaque index, gingival index, and tooth discoloration were evaluated in the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Without systemic disease,
• Had at least 24 teeth, and
• Without fixed or removable prostheses or orthodontic appliances

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with a history of systemic or topical oral antimicrobial therapy use in the last 3 months
• Individuals with an allergy to any ingredient used in the study
• Smokers
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Individuals with ≥2 mm gingival recession