Coconut Oil For Teeth Whitening: Benefits And How To Use It

Coconut oil is commonly used in natural remedies and beauty products. The internet has also simultaneously promoted the humble oil, and the recent trend has indeed gone viral, with everyone using coconut oil for teeth whitening. Coconut oil has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties and may help maintain oral hygiene. But the primary question remains, does it truly aid teeth whitening as it claims, or can it be labeled an apparent myth? Let’s dive into how coconut oil can support teeth whitening and if the ongoing craze has any factual backing. Keep reading.

Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

Despite having antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, coconut oil (Cocos nucifera L.) doesn’t carry any brightening benefits that can directly contribute to teeth whitening.

While no clear study has proven its effectiveness in whitening stained teeth, research does support coconut oil’s efficacy in reducing plaque buildup and tackling oral problems like gingivitis (1).

Let’s get familiar with this super oil’s various oral benefits.

Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Teeth

1. May Prevent Tooth Decay

Coconut oil helps kill common oral bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans, that are the lead cause of cavities and tooth decay (2), (3).

2. May Reduce Oral Odor

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is responsible for its antimicrobial properties. This saturated fat may aid in preventing the growth of Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that contribute to halitosis (bad breath) (4).

3. May Treat Gingivitis

Coconut oil may treat gingivitis, a gum disease that causes inflammation and irritation in the gums and can even result in tooth loss in severe cases (1).

4. May Reduce Plaque Buildup And Tooth Sensitivity

The fatty acids in coconut oil exhibit antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that eliminate oral bacteria in the mouth and prevent plaque formation (5). Reduced plaque buildup may also help prevent tooth sensitivity.

AnnaCris, a blogger, shared a positive update on her experience with coconut oil for teeth whitening. She also emphasized its use through a practice called “oil pulling,” stating, “I’ve noticed a huge difference and it is consistent. So if you oil pull for 3-5 days straight, you will see a noticeable difference and needless to say, that if you keep going (if your teeth are really yellow) you will see that your teeth are a shade whiter than when you started.” She also writes about her sensitive teeth, noting, “When I oil pull, the sensitivity does go away (i).”

Using coconut oil can give you healthier gums and teeth. And you can use it with other ingredients to whiten your teeth. Surprised? Keep reading to learn ways to use coconut oil for teeth whitening.

How To Use Coconut Oil For Teeth Whitening

1. Coconut Oil And Baking Soda

Baking soda is alkaline and can help lighten the appearance of acid-based food stains, like the ones from tea, coffee, and red wine. This quick remedy may also effectively kill oral bacteria in the mouth (6).

What You Need

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

What To Do

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.

Quick Tip

You may add a drop of peppermint essential oil to the mixture. It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and may prevent oral diseases (11).

2. Coconut Oil Pulling

Coconut oil has lauric acid that targets oral bacteria that cause stubborn yellow plaque buildup in the mouth (7). This ancient Ayurvedic technique can prevent bacteria accumulation and help maintain dental hygiene.

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

Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural compound that reduces inflammation, removes plaque, and helps prevent gum diseases like gingivitis (8).

What You Need

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

What To Do

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.

Quick Tip

Brush with baking soda and water after using this remedy to remove any possible yellow stains caused by turmeric.

4. Coconut Oil And Activated Charcoal

Brushing with activated charcoal may help clear stains from the teeth. The remedy also works on the dental resin used for filling cavities (9).

What You Need

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

What To Do

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: Excessive use of activated charcoal may damage dental fillers. So ensure not to use it frequently.

Quick Tip

Using a brush for the activated charcoal may be quite abrasive on the enamel of the teeth. You can try the remedy with your fingertip instead.

5. Coconut Oil Mouthwash

Peppermint oil has antimicrobial properties that may help fight against oral pathogens. It may also freshen your breath, enhance your palate, and brighten your teeth (10), (11).

What You Need

• 1 cup of coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• 5 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 1 tablespoon of sea salt
• A glass jar

What To Do

1. Mix the coconut oil, baking soda, and peppermint essential oil in a bowl.
2. Combine them well and stir in the sea salt.
3. Transfer it to a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Store the mixture in a cool place for 5 minutes.
5. Wait until it solidifies.
6. You can brush your teeth with this mixture (if it is solid) or swish it around in your mouth and spit it out (if it is melted).

Not everybody can benefit from coconut oil, so let’s have a quick look at its possible side effects and who should avoid it.

Who Should Not Use Coconut Oil For Teeth Whitening

Coconut oil isn’t harmful and doesn’t cause any side effects. However, if you are allergic to coconut oil or experience any sensitivity or inflammation during oil pulling, stop using it immediately. Coconut oil pulling is also not suggested for people with weak jaw muscles as the tedious task can tire out the muscles further.

Infographic: 4 DIY Coconut Oil Remedies For Teeth Whitening

Although coconut oil is known to the masses for its beautifying benefits, the idea of entering the oral category still attracts skeptical eyes and doubts. The latest rave is about coconut oil’s numerous benefits for our oral health, specifically whitening teeth. If you are keen on trying the oil but are unsure how to incorporate it into your everyday dental care routine, check out the infographic below for easy DIY recommendations.

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

With regular practice of coconut oil pulling for one to two months, you can witness some improvement in your teeth’ color.

Is olive oil better than coconut oil for teeth whitening?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that coconut oil, in comparison with olive oil as a teeth whitening treatment, displayed better results and also showed less plaque buildup and gum inflammation post-oil pulling.

Can I apply coconut oil to my teeth overnight?

Yes. You can do oil pulling any night and leave the oil applied to your teeth overnight. It can help reduce plaque formation and soothe sensitive gums.

Can coconut oil replace brushing my teeth?

While coconut oil helps nourish, protect, and strengthen the teeth and gums, it can not be a replacement for brushing. Flossing and brushing your teeth daily removes food particles stuck between your teeth and avoids cavities.

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

You can use cold-pressed or extra-virgin coconut oil to help in teeth whitening.

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

No, do not swallow coconut oil as it is full of bacteria and may cause diarrhea or stomach upset. Consult your dentist to understand the right and safe way to go about it.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Dr. Anjali AsokBAMS, MD (Ayu)

 

Dr. Anjali is a staunch believer of Ayurveda. Her holistic approach and passion for science help her treat her clients. She has 4 years of expertise in dealing with metabolic and lifestyle-related disorders, digestive care, women's health, skin and beauty, allergic conditions, detox procedures, and rejuvenating therapies. Her proficiency also includes yoga and marma points techniques.more

Aparna MallampalliHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Aparna is a professor-turned-content writer with over 5 years of experience in life sciences. Her passion for writing and interest in the healthcare and wellness industry pushed her toward a career in content writing. She has a master’s degree in microbiology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy. She aims to use her knowledge of...more

Arshiya SyedaSenior Editor

Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She holds a bachelor's degree in literature and psychology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a post-graduate diploma in psychological...more

Payal KarnikSenior Health & Wellness Writer

Payal Karnik is a senior health and wellness writer and a Certified Health and Nutrition Life Coach. She is a biotechnology graduate from the University of Mumbai with a keen interest in writing and a natural curiosity for science. This formidable combination equips her with the knowledge to write research-backed health and wellness articles. She has also published a research...more