Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth? (Coconut Oil Toothpaste Recipe)

Coconut oil for oral hygiene has recently gained traction in modern science and mainstream media. As a result, many different companies, especially those exploring organic and natural products, have talked about the benefits of coconut oil in relevance to our teeth.

Not only that, some companies have come out with coconut oil containing mouthwash and toothpaste. These products not only focus on oral hygiene and freshness, but their main selling point usually revolves around how coconut oil in the product will whiten teeth.

Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

The use of coconut oil for teeth, especially teeth whitening, is a centuries-old ritual that has become popular again as the world moves towards more natural products.

While the followers of organic knowledge and ayurvedic medicine genuinely believe in the power of coconut oil for teeth whitening, recent research conducted at the world's top universities and hospitals has also supported the same.

King’s College, Oxford University Hospital Trust, University of Manchester – United Kingdom

In a study published in August 2017, as a combined effort by researchers at Kings College, Oxford University Hospital Trust, and the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, over 42 published studies were analyzed, comprising over 182 participants.

The duration of these studies under consideration lasted from 7 to 14 days. This study has concluded that the use of coconut oil for cavities, teeth whitening, and general oral hygiene has resulted in favorable outcomes and therefore further research should be conducted in this realm. This suggestion is made based on how common these oral hygiene issues are throughout the world specially stained teeth and how easily and naturally they can be tackled using coconut oil as a part of the oral hygiene regime.

Al-Azhar Dental Journal, Al-Azhar University- Cairo, Egypt

A study published in January 2021, in the official publication for the dental faculty at Al-Azhar University Egypt, concluded on the efficacy of coconut oil for teeth whitening. The study compared the effects of coconut oil versus the use of a whitening mouthwash containing hydrogen peroxide.

The research concluded that even though the use of coconut oil for teeth whitening revealed results at a slightly slower pace, it was a better option because it did not increase tooth sensitivity and is, of course, an organic product to use, without harmful chemicals.

Properties of Coconut Oil that Helps with Whitening the Teeth - Why Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

Now that we know that the use of coconut oil for whitening teeth is not only supported in organic and natural medicine but is also supported by empirical research conducted in recent times, we shall also look at the properties of coconut oil that are the actual reason behind its ability to whiten teeth.

Anti-Bacterial Nature

With painful gums and highly sensitive teeth, brushing becomes an aching experience. And sometimes due to this discomfort, we brush very mildly thus not cleaning our teeth properly. This mild brushing over time results in yellow teeth, which could have been avoided in the first place had we used coconut oil for killing harmful bacteria in our mouth.

Presence of Fatty Acids

The presence of fatty acids has been attributed to the removal of plaque on teeth. A few researchers have concluded that the fatty acids present in coconut oil act as a natural abrasion medium, directly removing plaque from your teeth when you are brushing with coconut oil or oil pulling.

Not only has that, but the presence of fatty acids also actually helps in getting rid of all the gunk and debris that has been deposited in the crevices of your mouth, especially between the gums. Once all this harmful material is removed from our mouth, we not only experience cleaner teeth but good oral hygiene in the long run as well.

Prevents Plaque Buildup

How to Make a Coconut Oil Toothpaste at Home?

Do note that just like with all other organic and natural products, the efficiency of this coconut oil toothpaste depends on the purity of the ingredients being used.

Ingredients

½ tsp Baking Soda

1 tsp Dried Mint Leaves

2 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (Optional)

Directions

1. On a double boiler, on low medium heat, melt your coconut oil.
2. Once the coconut oil is completely melted, turn off the flame and take it off the stove.
3. Now add in your baking soda and dried mint leaves and mix well. You may add your peppermint essential oil at this point.
4. Pour the mixture into a mason jar and let it cool until it hardens.
5. Always remember to give it a mix after two days, to ensure that the ingredients remain homogeneous.

Cautions

Frequently Asked Questions

We will now answer some questions that are commonly asked in relevance to coconut oil and its use in teeth whitening.

Does Coconut Oil Get Rid of Yellow Teeth?

Does Pulling Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?

Should I Brush After Oil Pulling?       

You should most definitely brush after oil pulling, to remove all the bacteria and harmful plaque that has been drawn out of the teeth and mouth during oil pulling.

How Often Should I Oil Pull with Coconut Oil?

Start with oil pulling at once a day, on alternate days in the week. Slowly take it up to twice a day every day, to guarantee and sustain the results.

Conclusion