Oil pulling is an ancient traditional Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing or "pulling" edible oil around the mouth for about 15-20 minutes and then spitting it out. Common oils used include coconut oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, or olive oil. The practice is similar to using mouthwash but involves a longer swishing period. The main idea behind oil pulling is to improve oral health by reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can cause plaque, bad breath, gum inflammation, cavities, and gum disease. When swished around, the oil is believed to capture and remove bacteria and toxins from the oral cavity. Although oil pulling has been used for centuries and is proposed to provide both local oral and systemic health benefits, scientific evidence on its effectiveness is limited and mixed. Some studies suggest that it may reduce oral bacterial counts, improve gum health, and decrease bad breath, but there is no conclusive proof that it can cure or prevent diseases beyond these effects. The American Dental Association does not recommend oil pulling as a replacement for standard oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing. Instead, oil pulling could be used as an adjunct to conventional oral care routines. The process typically involves placing about one tablespoon (10 ml) of oil in the mouth on an empty stomach, swishing it vigorously between the teeth for 15-20 minutes until the oil becomes milky and thin, then spitting it out and brushing the teeth afterward to remove any remaining bacteria and toxins. In summary, oil pulling is a traditional method aimed at cleansing the mouth by swishing edible oil. While it may contribute to oral hygiene, it should not replace regular dental care practices and needs more scientific validation for broader health claims.