Effect of coconut oil pulling on plaque-induced gingivitis: A prospective clinical study

Abstract

Background: Plant-derived ayurvedic medicines have been used since ancient times to treat various health ailments including periodontal diseases. Previously, many herbal oral rinses have shown promising results in controlling bleeding and reducing inflammation of periodontium. Hence, the aim of this clinical study was to assess the effect of an ancient oil pulling method using coconut oil in controlling plaque-induced gingivitis. Materials and Methods: A total of 75 age-matched (19–21 years) subjects with plaque-induced gingivitis were selected for the study. All the enrolled subjects were advised to perform oil pulling with 5 ml of edible coconut oil every morning for 5 min on empty stomach and before tooth brushing. The clinical parameters such as plaque and gingival index scores were assessed periodically at baseline, 15th day, and 30th day. The collected data were analyzed using student paired t-test with SPSS software version 19. Result: No untoward side effects were observed following coconut oil pulling among all the study participants during the study period. A gradual statistical significant decrease in pre- and post-treatment scores of plaque and gingival index was noticed from baseline to 15th and 30th day (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Coconut oil pulling used as an adjunctive oral hygiene aid is effective in decreasing plaque formation and subsequent plaque-induced gingivitis.