Spirit Dental Resources

Flossing is an integral component to any great oral hygiene routine. If you are brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day, you’re on the right track towards maintaining healthy gums, strong teeth, and fresh breath. When it’s time to floss, even though you might think that you need to reach for good ol’ string floss, you do have another option that might appeal to you more: the Waterpik. This is the most well-known water flosser brand on the market, and there are quite a few different Waterpik products to choose from. How does a Waterpik stand up against regular floss, and is it worth your hard-earned cash? We cover the pros and cons of these two products below. Waterpik: An Easy and Modern Way to Floss If you find it a little challenging to use string floss the right way, you aren’t alone. Many people struggle with using the floss correctly to thoroughly clean between their teeth and beneath the gumline to remove plaque without causing irritation in the process. So this is where the Waterpik can come in really handy. Here are some of the reasons why the Waterpik has grown in popularity and become a highly recommended alternative to traditional flossing: It’s easy to use! Just fill it with water, turn it on, and move it slowly along your teeth to remove debris and plaque from between your pearly whites and along your gumline. A study found that the Waterpik is 29% more effective, compared to string floss, when it comes getting rid of plaque. It is also 33% more effective at removing plaque on marginal surfaces, and 29% more effective at cleaning approximal surfaces. In other words, every surface of your teeth could be cleaner when you use a Waterpik correctly.    If your gums tend to bleed, a Waterpik might be able to help. In a study, experts discovered that, after 14 days of use, the Waterpik was twice as effective, compared to regular floss, when it came to reducing bleeding from the gums. And, after 30 days of use, there was even more improvement. Not bad, right? If you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis, switching from string floss to a Waterpik might be a wise move. In another study, experts found that the Waterpik is 52% more effective at reducing gingivitis when compared to string floss, regardless of what type of toothbrush is used. And they also determined that the Waterpik is up to 93% better at reducing bleeding. String Floss: Tried-and-True Effectiveness When it comes to regular string floss, you do have a few different options to choose from. For example, there’s waxed floss, which has a light coating of wax that makes it more durable, and there’s unwaxed floss that makes it easy to clean tight spaces between teeth. Other options include polytetrafluorethylene floss (PTFE), which is less prone to shredding and can easily slide in between your chompers, and dental tape, which is flatter and broader to provide comfort to those who have more space in between their pearly whites. No matter what type of string floss you opt to use, there are certain steps to follow in order to be sure you’re making the most of your flossing routine: Begin by taking out roughly 18” of your string floss. Wind the majority of it around both of your middle fingers, but leave about 2” that you can hold between your index fingers and thumbs. Slide the floss in between your teeth, curving it around the base of the teeth and moving it up and down to remove as much plaque as possible. Make sure that, when you get to the base of a tooth, you gently go just below the gumline with the floss, too. When you’re ready to move to the next set of teeth, shift the floss in your hands so that you can use a clean section. Repeat until you have cleaned in between all of your teeth. Waterpik vs. Floss: What If You Wear Braces? Those who wear braces have to take extra steps to ensure they keep their mouths clean, and flossing is a must. But string floss might not be able to get into all of those hard-to-reach places under and around your braces, so a Waterpik might be a nice addition to your hygiene routine. Basically, the stream of water produced by a Waterpik could help remove any leftover food particles and plaque that your toothbrush and regular floss didn’t reach. It’s a good idea to talk to your orthodontist to learn how to thoroughly clean your braces, and to find out if a Waterpik is the right product for your needs. It's also a good idea make sure you have dental insurance that covers braces so you can save money and get the coverage you need. Hate Flossing? You Might Want to Give the Waterpik a Try! Do you tend to avoid flossing because you just can’t stand using string floss? Then it’s worth considering switching to a Waterpik. You might find that, because it’s so much easier to use, and because it allows you to floss your teeth more efficiently, you’ll be more inclined to stick to this extremely important part of your oral hygiene routine. Then, when you make an appointment for your next checkup, you might even impress your dentist with how much cleaner your mouth is, especially in between your teeth! Sources: https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/blog/dental-floss-vs-water-flossers/ https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/pro/clinical-research/Goyal-Waterpik-vs-String-Floss-for-Plaque-Removal-2013/ https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/pro/clinical-research/dental-floss-vs-water-flosser-reducing-gingivitis-plaque-barnes-2005/ https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/pro/clinical-research/dental-floss-vs-water-flossing-reduce-gingival-bleeding-rosema-2011/ https://www.orthodonticslimited.com/teeth/regular-floss-waterpik/ https://oralb.com/blog/dental-floss-types-the-pros-and-cons/ https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/how-to-floss  

If you’ve been diagnosed with TMJ, you know how painful it can be. But you don’t have to live with the discomfort. In addition to working with your dentist to determine what treatment options would be right for you, there are also easy exercises for TMJ pain that you can do at home. A few of those exercises are described below to help you get started. Exercises That Strengthen and Stretch the Jaw When your TMJ pain has subsided, you can try some strengthening exercises to help prevent the pain from recurring. Start by placing a thumb under your chin and then pushing down against it to open your mouth slowly. Be gentle the entire time, using your thumb to provide resistance. Once your mouth is open, remain there for just a few seconds. Then slowly close your mouth. To help stretch things out, try pressing the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Next, open your mouth slowly, going only so far as you can without it hurting. Once you experience pain, you should stop. You don’t want to force things. As an alternative stretch, you can begin with your jaw relaxed, the mouth closed, and the teeth apart slightly. Open the mouth slowly and go as wide as you can, but at the same time, look up only with your eyes. Then, for a few seconds, hold the mouth open before closing it slowly. You’re not done yet, though. The next step involves moving only your eyes so that you’re looking to the right as you move the jaw to the left (your mouth should be closed). Hold for a few seconds, make your way back to the starting position, and then move the jaw to the right and look with your eyes to the left. Exercises for Reducing Clicking in the Jaw Many people who have TMJ complain that their jaw “clicks” when they open and close it. The appropriate exercises can help strengthen, as well as release tension from, the muscles of the jaw joint so that the clicking may be reduced or prevented. Start in a relaxed position, sitting upright. Then, close the mouth so that the teeth touch, but don’t clench. Simply rest the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind the front teeth. Next, move your tongue towards the back of the mouth, as if you wanted to reach the soft palate with the tip of the tongue. As you do so, keep the teeth together, without clenching. Once you reach that area in the back of the mouth, open your jaw slowly until you start to feel that the tongue is pulling away from the roof of the mouth (you might start to feel some tension under the chin and in the back of the neck). Stop there, remain in that position for a few seconds, close your mouth again, and relax. Try repeating this exercise for about five minutes. If you’re doing it right, you won’t hear any clicking in the joint. You might need to practice a bit, and you might need to adjust your positioning to stop hearing the clicks in the joint. If you experience pain or discomfort after doing this exercise the first few times, that’s normal. As your ligaments grow stronger and the muscles used to close the mouth start to relax, it should get easier and the discomfort might go away. It may take up to three weeks, though, to retrain your muscles so that there’s no clicking or pain when you close and open the mouth.   Not Getting Any Relief? Time to Talk to Your Dentist! Although you can certainly try these TMJ exercises at home, if you are not getting any relief at all, it’s best to talk to your dentist. There are several different treatment options available, so don’t hesitate to discuss what could be the best approach to getting you to be pain-free again. Plus, your dentist can also give you pointers on things you should avoid doing in order to prevent TMJ pain in the first place. This professional advice is invaluable, and with the right dental insurance, you can get the help that you need without having to worry about breaking the bank.   Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/temporomandibular-disorder/tmj-exercises-for-pain-relief https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files/12128Ptmj.pdf

Participating in activities like sports and martial arts can be a lot of fun, as well as a smart way to exercise, but it could also be risky, particularly when it comes to your teeth. And that’s where a good mouthguard can come in to provide the protection that you need. What are mouthguards, and why would you need to use one? We’ve got you covered with some helpful information below.    What Exactly Is a Mouthguard, Anyway? Also referred to as a mouth protector, a mouthguard is a simple product that you can easily place in your mouth, usually only on the upper teeth, in order to cover your pearly whites and protect them against impact. This means that, whether you get punched in the face during a karate class, a ball hits your face while playing sports, or you fall while skating, your mouthguard could help reduce the risk of injuring your mouth or breaking your teeth. Note: Beyond protecting your chompers, mouthguards can even help protect the inside of your cheeks and lips, as well as your tongue. Fun fact: You typically don’t need to use a mouthguard to cover your lower teeth because they’re already a bit more protected, while the top teeth are more exposed. However, you can also get a mouthguard for your lower teeth when necessary, such as if you wear braces.   Is a Mouthguard One Size Fits All? There are actually a few different types of mouthguards that you can choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. First up, there’s the good ol’ stock mouthguard, which is a preformed product that is ready for use right after you purchase it. You can easily find these mouthguards in stores, such as in a sporting goods store, and they’re affordable. Unfortunately, if the fit isn’t perfect, there isn’t much that you can do about it, and your mouthguard might not be able to fully protect your teeth if that’s the case. Plus, you might even find that this mouth protector isn’t all that comfortable. So, while this may be a good place to start when searching for a mouthguard, there are better options out there.   Custom-fitted mouthguards are—you guessed it—custom-made to fit your unique mouth. What could be better than that? Your dentist can help you get the ideal mouth protector by taking an impression of your teeth and then crafting a mouthguard in that shape. This is the best way to get the full protection that you want for your chompers, but be prepared to pay more for this personalized product. Another option is the boil and bite mouthguard, which you can also buy in stores. This is a good in-between solution if you want something that’s a little more customized to your mouth, without having to go to the dentist to purchase a more expensive custom-fitted product. Basically, you’ll put this mouthguard into some hot water in order to soften it up. Then, you’ll place it in your mouth so that it can take on the shape of your teeth. Not bad, right? Tip: How do you know if a mouthguard is the perfect fit? If it’s comfortable and it isn’t restricting your ability to breathe or speak, it’s a great choice.   Can a Mouthguard Really Protect Your Teeth? You might be wondering if a mouthguard is really necessary, worth the money, and protective enough. The truth is that, yes, when it’s properly fitted, it can be effective. If you enjoy sports that may result in blows to the face that put your jaw, lips, teeth, and tongue at risk, a mouthguard is necessary to keep your smile looking beautiful. Keep in mind, too, that if you participate in non-contact sports (like biking or gymnastics, as a couple of examples), a mouthguard can be helpful. People of all ages, including kids, can benefit from the use of a protective and properly fitted mouthguard. So if you’re going to do anything that could put you at risk of a mouth injury or broken teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard while you play. Because a blow to your face might also cause damage to fixed bridgework or braces, the right mouthguard will even help protect orthodontic appliances, too.   Did you know? Mouthguards aren’t just for active adventure seekers and athletes. There are also mouthguards available for those who grind their teeth while asleep. If you have been diagnosed with bruxism or TMJ, your dentist might discuss mouthguard options to help you get relief from these oral health problems. Talk to Your Dentist About Mouthguards! When in doubt about whether you need a mouthguard, and when you need some advice regarding which mouthguard is appropriate for you, it’s best to have a chat with your dentist. Also, when store-bought mouthguards won’t cut it, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist about getting a product that will fit your mouth just right and provide the highest level of protection for your precious teeth. Hey, accidents happen. So why not take an extra step towards protecting yourself against injuries while you’re having fun? Young or old, a mouthguard is a great little device that anyone can use to reduce the risk of chipping your teeth, hurting the soft tissues of your mouth, or even losing a tooth during a variety of activities.   Sources: https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Science%20and%20Research/Files/patient_07.ashx   https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/mouth-guards#1 https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/mouthguards https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-emergencies-and-sports-safety/why-do-you-need-a-mouth-guard  

Tooth sensitivity is a literal pain. And even though it is temporary, arising suddenly before subsiding after a few moments, no one wants to deal with the discomfort that comes with sensitive teeth, especially while enjoying tasty foods and drinks. Thankfully, there are some things that you can do to handle sensitivity in your pearly whites, so a few easy strategies and treatments are listed below to help you get relief.   First, See Your Dentist for a Checkup There are several conditions that can cause tooth sensitivity, so it doesn’t always indicate that there’s a cavity to blame. Phew! Getting to the source of the problem is the best way to tackle it, so it’s a smart move to make an appointment with your dentist first. After a thorough examination, your dentist can help you figure out what’s causing your sensitivity, and that will give you greater insight into what you can actually do to resolve it. So, rather than choosing any old remedy for sensitive teeth, ask a pro for guidance. Doing so can help boost the odds that the treatment you use will be successful. Now let’s dive into a list of potential remedies for sensitive chompers, shall we? Tweak Your Brushing Strategy One of the first things that you can try to relieve sensitivity is switch out your toothpaste and toothbrush for products that are designed to be gentler on teeth and gums. Improving your brushing technique might also be necessary. To avoid damaging the protective enamel on your teeth, avoid brushing aggressively or with too much pressure. All you have to do to remove debris and plaque is use gentle, circular motions. Avoid using side-to-side motions, particularly at the gum line. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush, which will also be gentler on enamel. And, once your toothbrush starts to look worn (usually around every three months), it’s time to replace it. Try using non-abrasive toothpaste. You might even opt for toothpaste that’s made for sensitive teeth and may help reduce the amount of discomfort your chompers feel. These products are available over-the-counter, but your dentist can help you choose the one that’s best for your needs. Just keep in mind that you might have to use this toothpaste a few times before you start to notice a difference, so be patient. It isn’t a good idea to brush your teeth right after eating or drinking, especially if you’ve consumed foods or beverages that may adversely affect enamel (more on that below). It might be best to wait up to an hour before brushing to help protect your pearly whites. Change Your Diet, Just a Bit Different foods and drinks can affect your teeth in different ways. For example, highly acidic beverages and foods may contribute to sensitive teeth because the acid could end up wearing the enamel down over time. If your teeth are sensitive, consider reducing your intake of foods that could make the problem worse. A couple of examples are citrus fruits and carbonated beverages. Even sparkling water, which might seem harmless, may contribute to sensitivity. When enjoying a beverage that is acidic, consider drinking it through a straw. This might help reduce your teeth’s exposure to the liquid. Such a simple solution, right? Here’s another great reason to snack on more fruits and veggies: they can help stimulate the production of saliva, which can help combat any acid that your mouth has been exposed to. Receive Pro Level Treatments at Your Dentist’s Office When home remedies aren’t enough to help your teeth feel better, don’t lose hope. Your dentist has many different treatment options that may be appropriate for you. If you grind or clench your teeth, they might become sensitive. Really! But you don’t have to live with the pain, as your dentist can help you get a mouth guard to provide protection, especially if you grind your teeth while you sleep and aren’t conscious of what you’re doing. When gum recession, gum disease, or a damaged tooth is to blame for your sensitivity, your dentist can provide appropriate treatments to get your oral health back on track, such as a root canal or gum graft. With the right dental insurance, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to see your dentist right away and receive treatment without breaking the bank. In-office treatment options include the application of sealants that can help protect the surface of sensitive teeth. Your dentist might also recommend a fluoride gel for sensitive areas, or use a bonding resin to protect exposed roots, as a couple of examples. You Don’t Have to Live with Uncomfortably Sensitive Teeth! Tooth sensitivity isn’t something that you have to live with. There are a variety of tactics that you can try at home, and when those fail, your dentist is there to give you additional treatment options that can help you get some much-needed relief from the discomfort. The best way to start on your path towards pain-free teeth, though, is by making an appointment to see your dentist so that you can receive a diagnosis that can help direct you towards the most effective remedy. Before long, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite hot and cold foods and drinks without flinching in pain.   Sources: https://www.livescience.com/44377-sensitive-teeth.html https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-sensitivity/how-to-relieve-sensitive-teeth-naturally https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-sensitivity#1 https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/sensitive-teeth/faq-20057854   https://www.dentalhealth.org/sensitive-teeth https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/teeth-sensitivity/sensitive-teeth-causes-treatments-prevention https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/teeth-sensitivity/what-helps-sensitive-teeth-relief-treatment https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/patient_33.pdf?la=en https://www.123dentist.com/4-treatments-sensitive-teeth/

Walk into a store that sells dental care products and you’ll be inundated with a range of toothbrushes, from manual to electronic, and from soft to hard bristles. Sometimes, having so many options is a good thing; other times, it only makes shopping for the right product all the more confusing. When it comes to shopping for a toothbrush, how do you know that you’re choosing one that will really keep your teeth and gums healthy, without causing irritation? To help you make the right decision, we’ve compiled a short list of things that you should consider. Take Your Oral Hygiene Routine to the Next Level with a Better Toothbrush Here are a few things to think about when searching for a toothbrush that you can use twice a day to ensure your teeth and gums stay strong and clean: Bigger isn’t always better, at least when you’re talking about toothbrushes. A brush head that’s too large might make it difficult to brush your teeth comfortably. On the other hand, one that’s too small may not be effective at thoroughly cleaning your teeth. Choose a size that makes it easy to access all of the hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Generally, if the head of a toothbrush is ½” wide and 1” high, it’s likely a solid choice. Soft bristles are likely going to be the best way to go for the health and comfort of your teeth and gums. Although soft, the bristles will be able to brush away food particles and plaque, so you don’t have to go with hard bristles that might end up irritating your gums and wearing away your enamel. The toothbrush handle should be long enough to make it simple to reach your back teeth, and it should be comfortable to hold. Some brushes even feature non-slip handles, making it easier to maintain your grip while you clean your pearly whites. Check the packaging for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval. It indicates that the toothbrush has been tested for quality and safety. This alone can help you narrow down your many options to those that can be trusted most. What About Electric Toothbrushes? Electric toothbrushes are great for those who are willing to spend more money on a high-quality product that will help them maintain super clean teeth and healthy gums. If you aren’t sure if an electric toothbrush is right for you, it’s a great idea to consult with your dentist, who can guide you towards a product that comes highly recommended. Here are some things to look for when shopping for an electric toothbrush: Want to make sure you don’t apply too much pressure while brushing? Look for a product that comes with a built-in sensor to let you know when you’re being too aggressive.    Experts recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. Having a timer built into your electric toothbrush is another great feature because it lets you know that you’ve put in the right amount of time every time you brush. Some products even come with apps and Bluetooth connectivity to ensure you’re brushing every area of your mouth for the appropriate amount of time. Nice, right? Some electric toothbrushes are powered by batteries, while others are rechargeable. The type you choose is up to you and your budget, as well as whether or not you have room for the toothbrush charging station. Something else to consider when shopping for electric brushes: you’ll need to replace the brush heads on a regular basis, just as you’d replace a manual brush. However, the replacement brush heads can be pricey, so you might want to factor those costs into your buying decision. Because electric toothbrushes are high-tech products that often come with loads of features, including different brushing modes and brush heads, it’s a wise idea to shop for one that comes with a warranty. That way, your expensive investment will be protected in case anything goes wrong. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to go with a manual or electric toothbrush. You might find that you don’t like the feeling of an electric toothbrush vibrating against your teeth, or you might try one and discover that your teeth feel cleaner. Again, your dentist can help you if you’re really struggling to decide if an electric toothbrush is worth the price. Keep Your Teeth Spotless Even While Traveling Packing an electric toothbrush, complete with cumbersome charging station, for a trip might not be convenient. So, when shopping for a toothbrush that you can take with you while traveling, consider the following: If you love the way your teeth feel after using your electric toothbrush and you really don’t want to go back to a manual brush while away from home, look for an electric brush that operates on batteries so that it will be easier to pack. Rather than placing your toothbrush in a plastic bag, where moisture can allow bacteria to proliferate, look for a brush that comes with a ventilated cap that will protect the bristles while also allowing them to dry.   Disposable toothbrushes are fantastic for freshening up when you’re on the go. They can be used just once, and they have the toothpaste built right into the bristles, so all you have to do is brush your teeth as you normally would—no water or rinsing necessary. How neat is that?! Travel toothbrushes that fold up are also ideal if you want something that’s more compact. Those that feature antibacterial bristles can provide peace of mind if you’re concerned about any moisture that’s left behind before you fold up the brush and put it in your suitcase. Are Those Eco-Friendly Toothbrushes Really Any Good? We all want to do our part to help the environment, but we also don’t want to waste our hard-earned money on subpar products that won’t work even though they’re eco-friendly. So, are all of those environmentally friendly toothbrushes really worth trying? Eco-friendly toothbrushes that are made of sustainable materials, such as bamboo, rather than plastic, can be just as effective as any other toothbrush, particularly if the bristles are made of high-quality nylon. Toothbrushes that feature bristles made of other materials, such as charcoal-infused bristles, may not perform as well, or as gently, as nylon bristles. Remember, you don’t want your bristles to be too harsh on your teeth and gums, and you also don’t want them wearing out right away. Still Stumped? Ask Your Dentist! Wow, there are a lot of toothbrushes out there, complete with a range of features that you may or may not really need. It’s no wonder that so many people feel totally lost when shopping for something as simple as a toothbrush! So, when you’re in doubt about which product is right for you and your oral health needs, just check in with your dentist. He or she can offer you personalized tips so that you end up with the ideal toothbrush that you’ll actually enjoy using daily. Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/choosing-the-right-toothbrush   https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/choosing-a-toothbrush-the-pros-and-cons-of-electric-and-disposable#1 https://www.1800dentist.com/at-home-dental-tips/how-to-pick-a-toothbrush/ https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/how-long-will-a-travel-size-toothpaste-last https://www.bustle.com/life/the-5-best-bamboo-toothbrushes-9048946

If you’re the type of person who is all about doing things naturally, you have likely come across something known as oil pulling. What is oil pulling, and how can it affect your dental health? Should you give it a try, or are you better off sticking with basic brushing and flossing to maintain clean, strong teeth and gums? Oil Pulling: The Claims and How to Do It Oil pulling isn’t a new technique; it actually dates back thousands of years and is part of Ayurvedic medicine. Those who support the method claim that it can be used to cleanse the mouth and whiten teeth. And the best part is that you can do it all at home, on your own time. All you have to do is take a tablespoon of oil, such as sunflower oil, olive oil, sesame oil, or coconut oil, and swish it around in your mouth for up to 20 minutes. When you’re done, spit the oil out, making sure to not swallow any. Does It Really Work? Information regarding the effectiveness of oil pulling is mixed. According to WebMD,1 there are some studies showing that oil pulling can help provide protection against plaque and gingivitis, as well as bad breath. Some experts recommend sticking with coconut oil if you are going to give oil pulling a try, as it contains antimicrobial lauric acid, and a study showed that it might even help reduce the risk of tooth decay. However, if you aren’t a fan of coconut oil for any reason, you can still use sunflower oil or sesame oil to get the antibacterial benefits that they provide. Also, according to CNN,2 a couple of studies found that oil pulling using sesame oil helped reduce gingivitis, plaque, and Streptococcus mutans, which is a bacterium that is associated with tooth decay. Doesn’t sound too bad, right? There is skepticism, however, surrounding the effects of oil pulling. According to Nature Research,3 for example, a lot of the studies on oil pulling aren’t all that reliable, thanks to improper design. Longer studies and larger trials are necessary to determine if oil pulling really works. Even the American Dental Association4 (ADA) isn’t convinced, stating that there isn’t enough reliable evidence to prove that swishing oil around in your mouth can help brighten your smile or make your teeth and gums stronger. When it comes to dental hygiene practices, the ADA doesn’t recommend this technique.   Bottom line: the jury’s still out on whether or not oil pulling is worth your time. Want to Try It? Here Are Some Tips for Beginners Let’s say that you want to try oil pulling for the first time. After all, what harm could it do, right? Well, it’s totally fine to give it a go, but just be sure to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would (brush twice a day and floss at least once a day). Adding oil pulling to your oral hygiene routine as a little something extra that you’re doing to maintain your health is okay. Just don’t go substituting brushing and flossing with oil pulling—that would not be wise. And be sure to continue seeing your dentist for those all-important checkups and cleanings! Also, it can be really tough to swish oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes, so you can start by swishing for just one minute, or perhaps even five minutes. You can work your way up to 10 or 20 minutes gradually. And, when swishing the oil in your mouth, be gentle, making sure the oil is moving in between your teeth and along your gums. You don’t want your jaw to start hurting. Ouch! Overall, oil pulling is pretty easy, and just about anyone can do it. Plus, there is some evidence that shows it may benefit oral health. But even though it might be a good way to enhance your oral care strategy, you shouldn’t think of it as a miracle cure. Nothing beats a consistent brushing and flossing routine, along with regular trips to the dentist, when it comes to keeping your smile bright.   Sources: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/oil-pulling https://www.cnn.com/2014/08/06/health/oil-pulling/ https://idp.nature.com/authorize?response_type=cookie&client_id=grover&redirect_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nature.com%2Farticles%2Fsj.bdj.2018.281 https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/o/oil-pulling https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/coconut-oil-pulling-dangers