Do You Brush Before Or After Oil Pulling? Navigating Your Oral Care Routine
Quick answer: brush first, then oil pull. Brushing clears away food and plaque so the oil can reach your teeth and gums directly. If you use an oil with hydroxyapatite, like our Gentle Green Oil Pulling, this order also leaves the minerals on your teeth instead of brushing them away. Brush first, then oil pull, and do it consistently for the best results.
What Is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing a small amount of oil around your mouth for a few minutes, then spitting it out. The oil is "pulled" through and around the teeth until it turns thin and milky. The technique targets plaque and microorganisms in the mouth, helping to reduce overall bacterial load and support a healthier oral microbiome.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Reducing bacteria: Regular oil pulling may help lower levels of harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, which is linked to tooth decay.
- Fresher breath: Most bad breath comes from tongue coating and bacteria buildup, which oil pulling helps address.
- Less plaque: Swishing helps loosen plaque and bacteria so they can be cleared away.
- Healthier-feeling gums: Coconut oil may help calm irritated gums.
- A brighter-looking smile: Many people find oil pulling helps lift surface stains, especially with a charcoal-infused oil.
Brushing and Oil Pulling: The Order of Operations
The order of brushing and oil pulling is a topic of ongoing debate among dental professionals. Some suggest oil pulling before brushing to help loosen plaque and bacteria, which can then be brushed away. Others recommend brushing first to remove food debris, so the oil can work more directly on the teeth, gums and oral microbiome.
We recommend brushing first. It means everything the oil picks up is spat out at the end, and any beneficial ingredients in the oil stay in your mouth instead of being brushed off.
How to Add Oil Pulling to Your Routine
- Choose a time, ideally in the morning before breakfast.
- Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes with a hydroxyapatite toothpaste.
- Take about 1 teaspoon of Terra & Co. pulling oil into your mouth. Less is more: oil expands with body temperature and saliva. Taking a full tablespoon is one of the most common mistakes and makes it hard to swish.
- Swish the oil around for 2–5 minutes, making sure it moves through all parts of your mouth.
- Spit the oil into a trash can, not the sink, to avoid clogs.
- Rinsing with water is optional. Then smile!
More Oil Pulling Tips
- First thing in the morning: You can oil pull at any time of day, but many people prefer the morning on an empty stomach.
- Don't swallow: The oil is full of bacteria and debris by the time you're done, so always spit it out.
- Short and consistent beats long: A few minutes every day works better than occasional long sessions, and avoids jaw soreness.
- Look for helpful added ingredients: Activated charcoal for surface stains, hydroxyapatite for enamel care, and peppermint oil for fresh breath.
Terra & Co. Products for Oil Pulling
Terra & Co. makes two oils designed for daily oil pulling. Both are fluoride-free, alcohol-free and vegan.
Brilliant Black Oil Pulling
Coconut and MCT oil with activated charcoal, peppermint and vitamin E. Alcohol-free, made in the USA. $40
Gentle Green Oil Pulling
Nano-hydroxyapatite with neem and hemp seed oil for daily enamel care and sensitive gums. $40
Can't decide? The Oil Pulling Set includes both oils.
Common Questions About Oil Pulling
Is oil pulling safe?
Yes, when done correctly. Use high-quality oils and don't swallow the oil.
How long should I oil pull?
2–5 minutes is enough. Swishing longer than 5 minutes isn't necessary and can make your jaw sore.
Are there any side effects?
Some people experience jaw soreness from swishing too long. Oil pulling doesn't replace brushing and flossing, so keep both in your routine.
Brush first, then oil pull: it’s a simple, refreshing addition to your daily routine. Shop Terra & Co. oil pulling and start your routine today.
