Oil Pulling - Is it really good for your dental health?

If you've been paying attention to popular media, you'll probably recall the oil pulling craze that everyone was talking about earlier this year. As with most social media topics, oil pulling was in the forefront of people's news feeds and even the subject of debate among some health professionals, but the hype has already died down quite a bit. Still, there are those who swear by it and continue to claim that this ancient holistic method works wonders, aiding in everything from teeth whitening to allergy relief.

But is oil pulling really all it's cracked up to be? While we can't necessarily discount the potential benefits of oil pulling, as dental professionals we can say that this practice is NOT a substitute for the traditional dental hygiene methods recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA). These methods include daily brushing and flossing as well as regular yearly dental cleanings, oral cancer screenings and using ADA-accepted products.

Dental Screenings are Crucial for Early Detection

How many times have you ignored bodily pain or discomfort and convinced yourself it was nothing to be concerned about? These types of symptoms are warning signs from our bodies that something is amiss. Back pain, vision problems, tummy trouble, colds, and flu, are issues we commonly choose to live with. After all, they typically resolve themselves and pose no real danger. However, there are signs that should not be overlooked.

When it comes to oral health matters, folks seem to really turn a blind eye. "Oh, that little bump is nothing, my glands are just swollen." "My gums are inflamed because I brushed too hard."


In fact, new screening techniques allow today's dental health care professionals to identify red flags and detect a variety of conditions at the onset. This process is vital in discovering a number of health problems early and can mean life or death in some situations.

The American Academy of Family Physicians, reports that careful examinations of the mouth may reveal symptoms related to an underlying systemic disease. Their information notes that "swollen gums, ulcers, bad breath and dry mouth are just a few symptoms that could signal more serious conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, osteoporosis and more."

Other conditions that may be detected during a routine dental screening are Parkinson's Disease, Sleep Apnea, and Autoimmune Disorders.

Remember that your dentist has access to places that are virtually impossible for you to see! A thorough dental exam involves more than just the teeth, tongue, and gums.

Dr. Melcher and his staff are committed to providing the highest level of dental care. Please do not ignore dental issues. Instead, schedule an appointment for a complete screening. Contact our office to make an appointment by calling: (919) 782-0548

Find ADA - Approved Dental Products

With so many products on the market promising whiter teeth, fresher breath, and fewer cavities, sometimes it's hard to know which ones you can really trust. That's why it is always best to locate items bearing the American Dental Association's seal of approval. Do keep in mind that an ADA seal is not an endorsement, but aimed at guiding consumers to more reliable products when interpreting labels on dental health products.

When the ADA seal of approval is present it shows that the product has gone through a rigorous scientific and safety review by qualified dental professionals. Being able to post the ADA seal is a privilege for the manufacturers of everything from floss to sugar free gum to rinses and toothbrushes. Even denture cleansers and water filters have the opportunity to go through the ADA's inspection process. Gaining this esteemed approval is not easy, which is why ADA recommended items typically surpass higher standards than those required by law.

Search ADA Approved Dental Products Here.

In an effort to promote dental health and ensure that Americans are able to obtain the very best dental hygiene and anti-cavity products, ADA testers must prove that items perform as they claim to. That is why such claims are verified before the seal is earned and even before the products go on supermarket and drugstore shelves.

Dr. Simon Melcher and his team of highly skilled and professional dental hygienists are happy to make suggestions regarding which ADA-approved products will maximize your dental routine. Please call us to schedule an appointment: (919) 782-0548

MouthHealthy.org Answers Your Dental Related Questions

The American Dental Association recently launched the website MouthHealthy.org.  It is designed as a resource for the public to find answers to dental related questions on products, conditions, nutrition, concerns, and more.  There is a whole section for kids and the resources on the site are divided by age group so you can easily access information most pertinent for you.

In addition to information on topics from A-Z, there is also a search function for users to find an ADA member dentist in your area and a slideshow featuring causes and solutions for the top ten dental symptoms.

We hope you take advantage of the information and resources available to you at MouthHealthy.org and call us at Implant and General Dentistry to go over any concerns you may have: 919-782-0548.