What Is Oil Pulling? The TikTok Trend Explained
Oil pulling might sound like a brand-new dental trend, but it’s actually an ancient practice that’s recently found a second life on TikTok. Videos about oil pulling have racked up millions of views as creators share their morning routines and “natural” oral health hacks.
The practice actually comes from Ayurveda, a traditional health system that originated in India thousands of years ago.1 But while TikTok has helped bring it back into the spotlight, it’s also raised questions on whether it actually works.
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling involves placing a tablespoon of oil (commonly coconut oil, sesame oil, or sunflower oil) in the mouth and swishing it around for around 10–20 minutes before spitting it out. The idea behind the practice is that oil can help to pull out bacteria, plaque, and debris in the mouth.2
Researchers believe the process works partly through the action itself. Swishing oil mixes it with saliva, creating an emulsion that spreads throughout the mouth and coats surfaces such as teeth and gums. This may help trap bacteria and reduce their ability to stick to tooth surfaces.3
Some oils may also have antibacterial or anti-inflammatory properties. For example, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which may have antimicrobial properties to promote better oral health.4
Does oil pulling actually work?
Oil pulling may have some benefits for oral health when used alongside normal dental hygiene habits. In one randomised clinical trial, researchers found that people who practiced oil pulling had lower levels of Streptococcus mutans (a type of bacteria strongly associated with tooth decay). Reducing this bacteria can be helpful for oral health, although it should still be used alongside regular brushing and flossing.5
A review of several clinical trials found that oil pulling with coconut oil may help reduce plaque and lower bacteria in the mouth, which may support better oral hygiene. However, the evidence base in this review is limited, so further research is needed to better understand its effectiveness.
Oil pulling should not replace brushing or flossing
Despite its potential benefits, dental professionals consistently emphasise that oil pulling should not replace established oral hygiene practices. Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste remains one of the most effective ways to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.7
Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against acid attacks from bacteria8, which is something oil pulling cannot do. Similarly, flossing plays a critical role in oral hygiene because it removes plaque and
food particles from areas a toothbrush cannot reach. The spaces between teeth are especially vulnerable to plaque buildup and gum disease. Without flossing or other interdental cleaning tools, bacteria can accumulate in these tight areas, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation.9,10
What is the history of oil pulling?
Oil pulling comes from Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine that originated in India thousands of years ago. In Ayurvedic texts, oil pulling is called “kavala” or “gandusha”, and it was recommended as a daily oral cleansing practice. Traditionally, practitioners used sesame oil, which was widely available in India. The oil was swished in the mouth to clean teeth, strengthen gums, and remove “toxins” from the body. While modern science does not support the idea of toxins being pulled from the bloodstream, the practice did recognise that cleaning the mouth was important for overall health. 11
The rise of social media, especially TikTok, has recently made oil pulling a viral trend. Videos showing morning routines with coconut oil, tips for “whiter teeth,” and wellness hacks have racked up millions of views, helping a new generation discover this ancient practice. However, there is no strong evidence that oil pulling whitens teeth.12
A modern take on an ancient practice
Today, coconut oil is the most popular choice for oil pulling, largely because of its mild taste.12 But the core idea remains the same: swishing oil in your mouth can help trap and remove bacteria, which supports a cleaner mouth.13
While science is still exploring how much benefit oil pulling provides, it’s safe for most people and can be a relaxing addition to a daily routine. Think of it as a gentle nod to traditional wellness practices that have stood the test of time, but remember to keep brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly!
References
1. https://www.geetavara.co.uk/blog-2/oil-pulling-gandusha
2. https://www.amazedentalkirkland.com/blog/oil-pulling-an-ancient-remedy-for-modern-oral-health
3. https://journals.lww.com/aphd/fulltext/2025/07000/effect_of_oil_pulling_on_oral_health_in_comparison
4. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-and-teeth#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18408265/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32923724/
7. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/how-to-keep-your-teeth-clean/
8. https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/dental-treatments/fluoride/
9. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/oral-hygiene
13. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-benefits-of-oil-pulling