Oil pulling seems to be generally safe and well tolerated in clinical research.[1] Oil pulling should not replace standard dental care (brushing, flossing, professional dental care). There are rare case reports of exogenous lipoid pneumonia (lung inflammation from lipid inhalation) in people who performed oil pulling regularly for a year or longer.[2][3][4] These occurred in people who were at risk for aspiration (inhaling something other than air) because of underlying breathing or swallowing problems.[5] Some practitioners state that children younger than 5 should not practice oil pulling because of an increased risk of oil aspiration.[6]
What are the main drawbacks of oil pulling?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Oil pulling is generally safe but should not replace standard dental care, and there are rare cases of lipoid pneumonia associated with its practice, particularly in people who are at risk for aspiration. Additionally, children under 5 avoid oil pulling due to the increased risk of oil aspiration.