In recent years, ancient wellness practices have found their way back into the spotlight, with people eager to explore natural methods for improving health. One such practice that has gained considerable attention is oil pulling—an ancient Ayurvedic ritual believed to detoxify the body and enhance oral health. But with so many oral health fads circulating today, it begs the question: does oil pulling really work?

Originating from Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system of India, oil pulling involves swishing oil in the mouth for several minutes. Advocates claim it can do everything from whitening teeth to preventing cavities and even improving overall health. Yet, with the rise of modern dental care, how does this ancient method hold up under scrutiny?

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the world of oil pulling, exploring its history, how it’s practiced, the health claims surrounding it, and what science has to say about its effectiveness. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether oil pulling is worth incorporating into your daily oral care routine—or if it’s just another fleeting trend.

What Is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling is a simple but intriguing practice that involves swishing a small amount of oil—typically coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil—in the mouth for about 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is to “pull” toxins, bacteria, and debris from your mouth, promoting better oral health and hygiene. While it may sound unusual, oil pulling has been around for thousands of years, with roots in the ancient Indian practice of Ayurveda.

In Ayurveda, oil pulling is known as “kavala” or “gandusha” and was traditionally used as part of a broader daily health regimen. The practice wasn’t just limited to oral care; it was believed to purify the entire body by drawing out toxins. While modern wellness enthusiasts focus on its potential for cleaning teeth and gums, ancient practitioners saw it as a vital tool for overall health, boosting immunity and balancing the body’s systems.

In recent years, oil pulling has re-emerged, fueled by interest in natural remedies and holistic health approaches. Many people are turning to this ancient technique in search of an alternative or supplement to conventional dental products. The appeal lies in its simplicity and natural ingredients, as well as its promise to improve oral health without harsh chemicals. But before jumping on the bandwagon, it’s important to understand how this practice is performed and whether the claims surrounding it are backed by evidence.

Understanding the technique and what it aims to achieve is the first step to evaluating whether oil pulling is worth trying. So, how exactly does one do it? Let’s explore the proper method for oil pulling and the types of oils that are most commonly used.

How Is Oil Pulling Practiced?

Oil pulling may sound complex, but the practice itself is quite simple once you get the hang of it. The key is consistency and following a few basic steps to ensure you’re doing it correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Choose Your Oil The first step is selecting the right type of oil. Traditionally, sesame oil was used in Ayurveda, but coconut oil has gained popularity in modern times due to its mild taste and known antibacterial properties. Some people also use sunflower oil for oil pulling. Each oil offers unique benefits:

• Coconut oil: Rich in lauric acid, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for fighting bacteria and promoting gum health.
• Sesame oil: The original Ayurvedic oil for pulling, packed with antioxidants and traditionally used for oral detoxification.
• Sunflower oil: Another option, known for its light texture and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

2. Measure the Oil Take about one tablespoon of oil. This may seem like a lot at first, but as you get used to the practice, it will feel more comfortable. If you’re new to oil pulling, you can start with a smaller amount, such as one teaspoon, and gradually work your way up.
3. Swish the Oil Once you have the oil in your mouth, gently swish it around. Make sure to move it between your teeth and around all areas of your mouth. Avoid swallowing the oil. The idea is to “pull” the oil through your teeth and along your gums, allowing it to capture bacteria and debris. The swishing should be slow and steady—there’s no need for aggressive movements.

• Duration: Aim for 15 to 20 minutes. This might seem like a long time, but you can do this while showering, preparing breakfast, or watching TV. The oil will start to feel thinner as it mixes with your saliva.

4. Spit It Out Once you’ve finished swishing, spit the oil out. It’s important to spit it into a trash can rather than the sink, as the oil can solidify and clog your plumbing over time. Do not swallow the oil, as it may contain the toxins and bacteria you’ve just pulled from your mouth.
5. Rinse and Brush After spitting out the oil, rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water to remove any residual oil and bacteria. Some people recommend using salt water for an added cleansing effect. Finally, brush your teeth as you normally would to ensure your mouth is thoroughly cleaned.

Types of Oils Commonly Used for Oil Pulling

While coconut, sesame, and sunflower oils are the most commonly used for oil pulling, each has distinct qualities. Let’s take a closer look:

• Coconut Oil: This is perhaps the most popular oil for pulling today, due to its natural antibacterial properties and pleasant taste. The lauric acid in coconut oil is known for its ability to fight bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, a leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Sesame Oil: In Ayurvedic tradition, sesame oil has long been valued for its ability to support oral health. It contains antioxidants like sesamol, which help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation in the gums.
• Sunflower Oil: Although less popular in recent years, sunflower oil was historically one of the main oils used for pulling. Its light texture makes it easy to swish, and it also offers potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

Best Time to Practice Oil Pulling

Many practitioners recommend performing oil pulling first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. This is because your mouth accumulates a significant amount of bacteria overnight, making morning an ideal time to cleanse. Doing it before eating or drinking ensures that you remove these bacteria before introducing food into your system. However, some people prefer to do it at night before bed, especially if they want to end their day with a clean, fresh mouth.

While oil pulling is fairly easy to incorporate into your routine, the question remains: what can it actually do for your oral health? Next, we’ll take a closer look at the claimed benefits of oil pulling and whether they hold up under scrutiny.

What Are the Claimed Benefits of Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling has gained a reputation for delivering a wide range of benefits, especially when it comes to oral health. From reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth to whitening teeth and freshening breath, advocates of oil pulling suggest that this ancient practice can transform your dental hygiene routine. Let’s explore some of the most commonly claimed benefits and what they’re supposed to achieve.

Improves Oral Hygiene

One of the primary reasons people turn to oil pulling is its potential to improve oral hygiene. Advocates claim that oil pulling helps remove bacteria and plaque from the mouth, contributing to healthier teeth and gums. The process of swishing oil is said to act like a cleanser, reaching areas of the mouth that brushing and flossing may miss.

• How It Works: The oil “binds” to the bacteria in the mouth, pulling them away from teeth, gums, and the tongue as it’s swished around. Since many harmful bacteria are fat-soluble, the idea is that they dissolve in the oil and are then removed when the oil is spit out.
• Potential Impact: Reducing bacteria levels in the mouth can help prevent common issues like plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Some studies suggest that oil pulling may lower levels of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium associated with cavities and other oral infections.

Whitening Teeth Naturally

Another popular claim is that oil pulling can help whiten teeth naturally. Many people report that regular oil pulling leaves their teeth looking brighter and shinier, without the need for chemical whitening products.

• The Mechanism: While oil pulling doesn’t change the intrinsic color of your teeth, it may help remove surface stains from things like coffee, tea, or smoking. The act of swishing oil may help dislodge these surface stains over time, giving your teeth a cleaner, more polished appearance.
• Realistic Expectations: It’s important to note that oil pulling isn’t a quick fix for dramatically whiter teeth, especially compared to professional whitening treatments. However, regular oil pulling may gradually enhance the natural whiteness of your teeth by removing daily surface stains.

Freshens Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth. Oil pulling is thought to reduce these bacteria, leading to fresher breath without the need for strong mouthwashes or artificial breath fresheners.

• The Process: By swishing oil in the mouth for an extended period, oil pulling helps remove food particles, debris, and bacteria that can lead to bad breath. Coconut oil, in particular, is known for its antimicrobial properties, which can help fight the bacteria responsible for unpleasant odors.
• Effectiveness: Research shows that oil pulling may help reduce bacteria levels that cause bad breath, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus mutans. While it may not replace traditional methods like brushing and flossing, oil pulling could be a useful supplemental practice for maintaining fresh breath throughout the day.

Reduces Inflammation and Improves Gum Health

Oil pulling is also claimed to reduce inflammation in the gums and help prevent conditions like gingivitis. Inflammation in the mouth, often caused by plaque and bacteria, can lead to gum sensitivity, redness, and swelling. Regular oil pulling is believed to reduce this inflammation, promoting healthier gums over time.

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has known anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. These properties may help soothe irritated or inflamed gums, providing relief for people with gingivitis or sensitive gums.
• Supportive Studies: While there are a few studies that support the idea that oil pulling can reduce markers of gum inflammation, more research is needed to determine how significant these effects are when compared to standard dental care practices.

Detoxification of the Body

One of the more holistic claims about oil pulling is that it helps detoxify the body. This concept comes from Ayurveda, which views the mouth as a gateway to the rest of the body. Proponents believe that by removing toxins from the mouth, oil pulling helps prevent these harmful substances from entering the bloodstream, thus promoting better overall health.

• The Ayurvedic Perspective: In Ayurveda, oil pulling is part of a detoxification process known as “dinacharya,” or daily routine. It is thought to remove toxins, known as ama, from the body, improving digestion, boosting immunity, and even enhancing mental clarity.
• Skeptical Viewpoint: While many people report feeling healthier overall after incorporating oil pulling into their routine, there is limited scientific evidence to support the idea that it has significant detoxifying effects beyond oral health.

Potential Impact on Overall Health

Supporters of oil pulling often claim that its benefits extend beyond the mouth. Some believe that the practice can help with conditions like headaches, sinus congestion, and even skin issues. The theory behind these claims is that by improving oral health and reducing toxins in the mouth, oil pulling has a positive impact on other areas of the body.

• Headaches and Sinus Relief: Some individuals report experiencing fewer headaches or improved sinus drainage after regularly practicing oil pulling. While there is little scientific data to back these claims, oil pulling may help by reducing the oral bacteria that contribute to sinus infections and other inflammatory conditions.
• Skin Health: A handful of users suggest that oil pulling improves skin health by reducing acne and other skin conditions. This is attributed to the idea that fewer toxins and bacteria in the mouth could lead to fewer skin-related inflammatory reactions.

The Verdict on Claimed Benefits

While oil pulling has a long list of proposed benefits, it’s important to separate anecdotal evidence from scientific fact. There is some support for oil pulling’s ability to reduce oral bacteria, improve gum health, and freshen breath, but claims about its detoxifying effects and overall health improvements are largely unproven. For now, it’s best to view oil pulling as a potential supplement to traditional oral care rather than a cure-all for dental or systemic issues.

Next, we’ll explore what the science says about these claims and how oil pulling stacks up against modern oral hygiene practices.

What Does the Science Say About Oil Pulling?

Despite the wide range of claimed benefits, oil pulling has remained a subject of debate within the dental community, primarily because of the limited scientific evidence backing many of its assertions. While anecdotal reports and personal testimonials abound, the scientific research on oil pulling is still in its early stages. Let’s dive into the studies that have been conducted so far and see how this ancient practice measures up against modern oral health care.

Scientific Studies and Findings

Research on oil pulling is relatively sparse, but a few studies have explored its effects on oral hygiene, particularly its impact on reducing harmful bacteria and improving gum health. Here’s what the science says so far:

• Reducing Oral Bacteria: Several small studies suggest that oil pulling can reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth, particularly Streptococcus mutans, which is a leading cause of cavities and tooth decay. For example, a 2009 study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research compared the effectiveness of oil pulling using sesame oil with a chlorhexidine mouthwash. The results showed a significant reduction in Streptococcus mutans levels in both groups, suggesting that oil pulling might offer a natural alternative to antibacterial mouthwash.
• Improving Gum Health: Oil pulling may also have a positive impact on gum health. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2014, participants who practiced oil pulling saw a decrease in plaque and gingivitis after a few weeks. These findings suggest that oil pulling could help reduce inflammation in the gums and prevent gum disease, although more long-term studies are needed to confirm these results.
• Whitening Teeth and Freshening Breath: While scientific evidence specifically supporting oil pulling as an effective teeth whitener is limited, its ability to freshen breath has been documented. A study published in 2011 found that oil pulling reduced levels of sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath. This supports the idea that oil pulling can be a useful tool for controlling halitosis, but its effects on teeth whitening appear to be more anecdotal.

The American Dental Association’s Stance

Despite some promising studies, the American Dental Association (ADA) does not currently endorse oil pulling as a scientifically proven method for improving oral health. The ADA emphasizes that oil pulling should not replace established oral care practices like brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly.

• Why the Skepticism? The main reason for the ADA’s cautious stance is the lack of large-scale, long-term studies. While small studies have shown some potential benefits, the scientific community generally requires more extensive research before officially recommending alternative practices. The ADA has pointed out that while oil pulling may reduce bacteria temporarily, it cannot replace proven methods like mechanical brushing and professional dental care.

Comparison with Traditional Oral Care

When evaluating oil pulling, it’s essential to compare its results with those of traditional oral care methods. Here’s how oil pulling stacks up against standard practices:

• Brushing and Flossing: There’s no doubt that brushing and flossing remain the most effective ways to remove plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential for preventing tooth decay, while flossing removes food particles and bacteria from areas that brushing can’t reach. Oil pulling may supplement these methods, but it doesn’t remove plaque as effectively as brushing or clean between teeth like flossing does.
• Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwashes, particularly those containing chlorhexidine, are proven to reduce oral bacteria and improve gum health. While oil pulling may offer a more natural alternative, mouthwash is generally more effective for controlling bacteria and treating gum disease in the short term.
• Professional Cleanings: Regular dental cleanings are vital for removing hardened plaque (tartar) and monitoring oral health. No amount of oil pulling can replace the benefits of a professional cleaning, which goes beyond what at-home care can achieve.

Is Oil Pulling a Replacement for Brushing and Flossing?

One of the most critical points to understand is that oil pulling should never be used as a substitute for traditional oral care methods. While it may offer some benefits, it cannot replace the mechanical action of brushing and flossing, which physically removes plaque, food particles, and bacteria. Oil pulling is best viewed as a complementary practice rather than a standalone solution.

The ADA and most dental professionals recommend continuing with your normal oral hygiene routine and seeing oil pulling as an additional practice that could offer mild benefits, especially if you’re interested in a natural approach to oral health.

The Gaps in Scientific Research

It’s worth noting that much of the existing research on oil pulling has limitations. Many studies have small sample sizes, short durations, or lack control groups. As a result, while some findings are promising, they are not definitive. More robust clinical trials are needed to fully understand the long-term effects of oil pulling and to compare its efficacy with other oral care methods.

In particular, questions remain about whether oil pulling provides significant benefits beyond oral hygiene, such as detoxifying the body or improving overall health. These claims, while widely touted in holistic health circles, have yet to be substantiated by clinical evidence.

The Bottom Line from a Scientific Perspective

While oil pulling has been shown to reduce certain types of oral bacteria and may provide some benefits for gum health and bad breath, it should not replace proven oral care practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Scientific research into oil pulling is still in its infancy, and more extensive studies are needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness.

For now, oil pulling can be seen as a useful supplemental practice, but it’s crucial to maintain a strong foundation of traditional oral care to protect your teeth and gums. Up next, we’ll explore any risks or downsides associated with oil pulling to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Are There Any Risks or Downsides to Oil Pulling?

While oil pulling may seem like a simple, natural addition to your oral care routine, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and downsides. Though it’s generally considered safe, improper technique or over-reliance on oil pulling can lead to some issues. Here’s a closer look at what to watch out for.

Potential Risks of Oil Pulling

Although oil pulling is generally safe for most people, there are a few risks to keep in mind, particularly if the practice is not done correctly or is misunderstood as a replacement for essential oral care.

1. Jaw Fatigue or Soreness

• Why it Happens: Swishing oil around your mouth for 15-20 minutes can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to it. The constant movement of the jaw may cause soreness, especially in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can become strained from extended periods of repetitive motion.
• How to Prevent It: If you experience discomfort, try reducing the time you swish oil, starting with 5-10 minutes and gradually working up to the full duration. Make sure you’re not swishing too vigorously—gentle, slow movements are all that’s needed.

2. Aspiration Risk (Inhaling Oil)

• Why it Happens: There is a small risk of inhaling oil into the lungs, especially if swishing is done too vigorously or while lying down. This can lead to a condition known as lipoid pneumonia, where fat particles from the oil end up in the lungs and cause inflammation.
• How to Prevent It: Always perform oil pulling in an upright position and swish the oil gently. Avoid lying down or multitasking in a way that could cause you to accidentally swallow or inhale the oil.

3. Digestive Discomfort if Accidentally Swallowed

• Why it Happens: Swallowing the oil after it has been swished around your mouth can introduce bacteria and toxins back into your digestive system, which may cause nausea or digestive upset. Coconut oil, in particular, can act as a mild laxative if ingested in larger amounts.
• How to Prevent It: Make sure to spit out the oil after swishing and never swallow it. If you accidentally swallow a small amount, it’s usually not harmful, but try to avoid this by paying close attention while swishing.

Not a Substitute for Brushing and Flossing

One of the biggest misconceptions about oil pulling is that it can replace traditional oral hygiene practices, like brushing and flossing. Some proponents of natural remedies may claim that oil pulling is all you need for a healthy mouth, but this is far from true.

• Ineffective at Removing Plaque: While oil pulling may reduce bacteria levels, it does not remove plaque and tartar as effectively as brushing and flossing. Plaque is a sticky biofilm that adheres to teeth and can only be removed with mechanical action, such as brushing.
• No Fluoride Protection: Oil pulling doesn’t provide the protective benefits of fluoride, which is essential for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste is a critical part of maintaining strong, healthy teeth.
• Limited Reach: Oil pulling does not get in between teeth like flossing does. Flossing is necessary to remove food particles and bacteria from between teeth, where a toothbrush and oil cannot reach.

Possible Contamination from Low-Quality Oil

Using low-quality or improperly stored oil for pulling can introduce contaminants into your mouth, which can cause irritation or infection.

• Rancid Oil: Make sure the oil you use is fresh and properly stored. Rancid oil may contain harmful bacteria or lose its effectiveness. Always use oils that are cold-pressed and organic if possible to ensure purity and avoid chemicals.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to certain types of oil, particularly coconut oil. If you experience any itching, swelling, or irritation in your mouth after oil pulling, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare provider.

Time-Consuming Nature of Oil Pulling

Oil pulling requires a commitment of 15 to 20 minutes of swishing, which can be a significant time investment for some people. For those with busy schedules, finding time for oil pulling every day may be a challenge.

• Can You Cut Down the Time? While the traditional practice suggests 20 minutes, some studies have shown benefits from shorter durations, such as 5-10 minutes of swishing. However, keep in mind that the longer you swish, the more bacteria and debris the oil may be able to pull from your mouth.
• Time-Effective Alternatives: For those with time constraints, brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing once a day are much more time-efficient practices that are proven to promote oral health. Mouthwash is also a quick alternative for freshening breath and reducing bacteria in the mouth.

Does It Interfere with Other Dental Work?

If you have dental work like crowns, fillings, or braces, you might wonder if oil pulling could affect these materials. While there is no strong evidence suggesting that oil pulling damages dental restorations, it’s important to exercise caution:

• Crowning and Fillings: Oil pulling is unlikely to remove or loosen fillings or crowns. However, if you experience any discomfort or notice changes in your dental work after starting oil pulling, you should consult our dentist.
• Braces and Retainers: If you have braces, oil pulling may pose a challenge, as the oil could get trapped in brackets or wires. It’s best to consult with our dentist before starting oil pulling if you have orthodontic appliances.

The Takeaway on Risks and Downsides

Oil pulling is generally considered safe, but like any practice, it comes with some potential risks and limitations. These include minor issues like jaw soreness and the risk of accidentally swallowing the oil. The most significant concern, however, is the misconception that oil pulling can replace essential oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing, which remain the gold standards for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

For those interested in trying oil pulling, it can be a useful supplementary tool to enhance oral hygiene, particularly when used alongside traditional care methods. However, it’s crucial to approach oil pulling with realistic expectations and to use it as part of a broader oral health regimen.

Does Oil Pulling Really Work?

After examining the history, practice, claimed benefits, scientific evidence, and potential risks of oil pulling, the big question remains: Does oil pulling really work? The answer is both yes and no, depending on how you define its role in oral health.

Mixed Results and Varying Perspectives

For many people, oil pulling can offer certain benefits, particularly in terms of reducing bacteria, freshening breath, and potentially improving gum health. Anecdotal reports abound from users who have seen improvements in their oral hygiene, whiter teeth, or even broader health benefits. However, it’s important to remember that much of this evidence is personal and not always backed by rigorous scientific studies.

The existing research shows that oil pulling may reduce harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, lower the risk of gum inflammation, and help control bad breath. However, these effects are mild compared to what can be achieved with proven dental care practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Furthermore, claims about oil pulling’s ability to whiten teeth, detoxify the body, or treat systemic health issues are not strongly supported by scientific evidence.

Should You Try Oil Pulling?

If you’re curious about oil pulling, there’s little harm in giving it a try as long as you don’t rely on it as a substitute for traditional oral hygiene practices. Oil pulling is a natural, inexpensive method that may help support your overall oral health routine. Here’s what to consider before making it part of your daily life:

• Supplement, Don’t Replace: Remember, oil pulling is not a replacement for brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. These are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, preventing cavities, and addressing issues that oil pulling simply cannot fix.
• Start Slowly: If you decide to try oil pulling, begin with shorter sessions of 5-10 minutes and see how your mouth feels. Coconut oil is a popular choice because of its antimicrobial properties and pleasant taste, but feel free to experiment with sesame or sunflower oil as well.
• Monitor Your Results: Keep an eye on how oil pulling affects your mouth. Are your teeth feeling cleaner? Does your breath seem fresher? After a few weeks, if you notice positive changes, you can decide if oil pulling is a good long-term addition to your routine.

Balancing Traditional and Modern Practices

In today’s wellness-driven world, it’s tempting to embrace natural remedies that promise holistic benefits, but it’s essential to strike a balance between these practices and scientifically proven methods. Oil pulling is a practice steeped in ancient tradition, and while it has merit, it shouldn’t overshadow the importance of modern dental care.

For best results, use oil pulling as a complementary practice. Combine it with consistent brushing, flossing, fluoride toothpaste, and regular visits to our dentist. This balanced approach will ensure you’re getting the best of both worlds—natural health care methods and scientifically backed strategies for optimal oral hygiene.

The Final Verdict

So, does oil pulling really work? The short answer is: yes, but within limits. Oil pulling can play a role in improving your oral hygiene, particularly when it comes to reducing bacteria and freshening breath. However, it is not a magic bullet for dental problems, and it cannot replace the essential practices of brushing, flossing, and professional dental care.

If you’re seeking a natural way to enhance your oral care routine, oil pulling may be worth trying, especially for its potential antibacterial benefits. However, approach it with realistic expectations, and always maintain a strong foundation of traditional dental care.

Conclusion

Oil pulling, an ancient practice with a modern resurgence, offers potential benefits for oral health when used correctly and in conjunction with established dental habits. While it may help reduce bacteria, improve gum health, and freshen breath, it should not be viewed as a replacement for brushing, flossing, or regular dental check-ups.

If you’re considering adding oil pulling to your routine, consult with our dentist to ensure it fits within your broader oral health strategy. And remember, the best way to keep your smile bright and healthy is through a combination of tried-and-true methods and informed choices about supplementary practices like oil pulling.

Want to learn more about maintaining excellent oral health? Schedule a consultation with our dentist today to discuss the best practices for your smile. Whether you’re curious about oil pulling or simply want to optimize your dental care routine, we’re here to help you achieve the healthiest smile possible!