It’s a common misconception that once you’ve suffered from tooth decay, a cavity cannot be healed. The only option is to have your tooth drilled out and stuffed with some form of synthetic solution. Sure, sometimes it might be too late. But there are healthy solutions out there to heal cavities naturally.
While we will get into which essential oils are good for healing cavities – and how the practice of oil pulling can be very effective – first consider some other interesting natural alternatives. Diet, for one. According to a study by the British Medical Journal, you can potentially reverse tooth decay and cavities through the food and drink you eat.
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This study divided 62 children with cavities into three different groups. Group one had oatmeal, along with a standard diet. Group two had a normal diet that was supplemented with vitamin D. Group three had a grain-free diet that was supplemented with vitamin D. Take a look at the results:
- Group one: Had an increase in cavities
- Group two: Had improvements in cavities
- Group three: Nearly all cavities were healed
This particular study, along with countless other studies on natural cavity healing, shows the misinformation presented by the medical industry – in regards to what causes tooth decay and what can be done to heal it.
Related article: How to White Teeth Naturally
Natural alternatives for oral health
Before outlining our favorite essential oils for protecting against cavities naturally, here are a few other “home remedies” to consider:
- Decrease sugar intake: This one is kind of a given, but sugar is most likely the worst culprit of tooth decay and cavities. Sugar feeds on oral bacteria to curb a healthy flow of dental fluids. Some of the worst sugars are candy, soda, and sugar-ridden baked goods.
- Remove phytic acid: Phytate, or phytic acid, blocks minerals and inhibits enzymes often found in nuts, grains, and beans. Phytic acid has largely become an issue in modern times because we no longer subscribe to ancient food preparation methods. Your goal should be to only eat foods that are organic and free of GMOs.
- Consume raw dairy: Raw dairy products are infused with healthy minerals and vitamins that promote strong teeth. Filled with calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and a host of vitamins, raw dairy products helps to prevent tooth decay.
- Use mineralizing toothpaste: Fluoride-free toothpaste, while more expensive than traditional toothpaste, will save you money in the long run (due to fewer dental appointments).
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Essential oil pulling for tooth decay and cavities
Used for centuries and centuries, oil pulling has been an often-used procedure for oral detoxification. And in recent years, it has risen in popularity throughout the world – particularly in the United States. Although it does take some diligence, it’s a pretty simple process.
In short, you’ll want to swish a tablespoon of your chosen oil in your mouth for at least 5 minutes (for improved results, some advocates suggest up to 20 minutes). According to Dr. Amala Guha, assistant professor and president of The International Society for Ayurveda and Health, suggests two sessions of four minutes as a good first attempt.
Writing for CNN, Sara Cheshire described the following of her first attempt at oil pulling:
The taste itself isn’t so bad on the surface, but putting chunky coconut oil in your mouth before being fully awake can trigger a gag reflex. Luckily, the time goes by quickly, and afterward I admit my teeth felt polished throughout the day, as if I’d just come from the dentist.
So what oils should you use? First, we can’t emphasize enough the importance of using only food grade essential oils. Most brands are not intended for internal use, so be sure to read the label carefully. We recommend using a combination of coconut oil and a drop or two of clove or tea tree oil for optimal antiseptic and antifungal power. Here are a few tips to consider:
- The optimal time to oil pull is in the morning, the first thing you do (or, at least, one of the first things you do) after getting up out of bed.
- Try not to let the discipline of oil pulling deter you. Once it becomes a normal part of your morning routine, you will adapt. You can always “swish” while you’re taking a shower, putting on your clothes, prepping for the day, etc.
- After you’re finished, rinse out your mouth with warm water. An added bonus is to use salt water. This will add to the antimicrobial properties your teeth benefit from.
- Rinse the spent oil in the trash rather than in your sink, because over time the oil could pose plumbing issues down the road.
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To put out a disclaimer, oil pulling isn’t a fool-proof method for healing cavities. But while the American Dental Association hasn’t waved their green flag (why would they?), it’s a natural technique that more and more people are finding success with.
Masigi has an oil pulling treatment product that contains its own pre-portioned essential oil blend.
Do u heat the oil to make it a liquid before putting in your mouth? Thanks.
@ Patty – Coconut oil can be warmed on the stovetop to make it more palatable. I gag if it’s not warmed, but that’s my personal preference.
If you keep your coconut oil in a warmer place, you should not have a problem. I keep a tall ball jar (the asparagus size) in the bathroom packed with plastic spoons and baggies in it (to spit the oil into when done). Our bathroom is warmer than the rest of the house and it is easy to just take care of that in the morning while showering…just don’t put the oil down the drain even though it is tempting, you have your baggies right there!
Chew it for a 1/2 second & it will turn to liquid.
Coconut turns to liquid Very Fast once in your mouth.
Hi Patty – There are different techniques oil pulling, but there shouldn’t be any need to heat the oil. The essential oils should already have enough liquidity, unless you are using a unique brand. We just strongly recommend that you use a food grade oil. Many EO brands are not recommended for internal use.
Thanks for stopping by!
Someone else said they switched to Sesame Seed oil after using coconut oil for 4 months and that this oil really left their mouth feeling exceptionally cleaner, is Sesame Seed oil ok to use too?