Effect of Oil Pulling on Plaque and Gingivitis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Oil pulling is an age-old process mentioned in Charaka Samhita and Sushratha's Arthashastra. This study was conducted to assess the effect of oil pulling on Plaque and Gingivitis. Objectives (1) To assess the effect of oil pulling on plaque and gingivitis. (2) To monitor its safety on oral soft and hard tissues. Methodology 10 subjects performed Oil Pulling along with their other oral hygiene measures for 45 days, using Refined Sunflower Oil. Their Plaque and gingival scores were assessed periodocally by modified PHP and Gingival indices. The results were subjected to t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results The reduction in plaque and gingival scores from baseline to 45 days were 0.81+-_0.41 (P<0.01) and 0.39+_0.17 (P<0.01) respectively. The differences were found to be statistically significant. Conclusion Oil pulling is having dental benefits. Hence this holds a chance to be added to other oral hygiene measures.