Common Mistakes to Avoid When Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that has gained popularity for its benefits to oral health. By swishing oil in your mouth, you can reduce harmful bacteria, support gum health, and achieve fresher breath.

However, to get the most out of it, it's important to avoid the mistakes people often make. Let’s explore these mistakes and share tips to make sure you're oil pulling effectively.

Understanding Oil Pulling

Oil pulling involves swishing a small amount of oil in your mouth for a few minutes, then spitting it out. This practice has roots in Ayurvedic medicine and is known for its ability to improve oral hygiene by reducing plaque, combating bad breath, and promoting overall oral health.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Oil Pulling

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Type of Oil

Not all oils are created equal when it comes to oil pulling. Using high-quality oils like coconut oil is essential. Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that help reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth. Avoid using oils that aren't specifically recommended for oil pulling, as they may not provide the same benefits.

Mistake 2: Using Too Much Oil

A full tablespoon of solid coconut oil is one of the most common mistakes. Oil expands as it warms and mixes with saliva, which makes a large amount hard to swish. About one teaspoon is plenty.

Mistake 3: Swishing Too Long or Too Hard

You may have read that you need to swish for 15–20 minutes. You don't. We recommend starting with 2–3 minutes and staying under 5. Swish slowly and gently, pushing and pulling the oil through your teeth. Swishing too long or too hard is the main cause of a sore jaw. If the taste of plain coconut oil puts you off, try an oil with natural peppermint to make the routine more pleasant.

Mistake 4: Swallowing the Oil

Swallowing the oil after pulling isn't a good idea, as it contains the bacteria and debris you've just removed from your mouth. Always spit the oil into a trash can, not the sink, as it can clog pipes.

Mistake 5: Oil Pulling on a Full Stomach

For the best results, oil pull on an empty stomach. Many people find it works best in the morning before they've had anything to eat or drink.

Mistake 6: Skipping Brushing

Oil pulling adds to your routine; it doesn't replace brushing and flossing. We recommend brushing first, then oil pulling. Read Brush Before or After Oil Pulling? for why.

Tips for Effective Oil Pulling

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you’re oil pulling correctly:

1. Choose the right oil: use a high-quality oil pulling oil, such as Terra & Co.’s.
2. Measure the oil: take about one teaspoon.
3. Swish for the right duration: 2–3 minutes to start, and no more than 5. Don't push yourself to cheek-muscle exhaustion.
4. Spit it out: into a trash can, not the sink. Keeping your oil in the kitchen and swishing before breakfast makes this easy.
5. Rinse if you like: rinsing with water is optional and helps remove any oily residue.

Terra & Co. Products for Oil Pulling

Our oils are alcohol-free, fluoride-free, vegan and made in the USA, with a light mint taste. Pair them with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, formulated to strengthen enamel, for a complete fluoride-free routine.

Brilliant Black Oil Pulling

Coconut and MCT oil with activated charcoal, peppermint and vitamin E. Alcohol-free, made in the USA. $40

Shop now

Gentle Green Oil Pulling

Nano-hydroxyapatite with neem and hemp seed oil for daily enamel care and sensitive gums. $40

Shop now

Can't decide? The Oil Pulling Set includes both oils.

Avoiding these common mistakes is key to getting the most out of this ancient practice. Use the right oil, the right amount and a gentle few minutes each morning, and oil pulling becomes an easy, refreshing habit. Explore Terra & Co. oil pulling.