Fact Check: Can using Coconut Oil Reverse Tooth Cavity?

A Pinterest post claims that coconut oil can be used to reverse tooth cavities. The claim is False.

Claim 

A Pinterest user SpinDash Teeth Whitening posted a claim that, "By using coconut oil you will be able to reverse cavities and heal decomposed teeth."

The post can be accessed here.

Fact Check

The claim is False. Coconut oil can promote better oral hygiene but cannot reverse cavities or heal decomposed teeth. Preventing tooth decay requires consistent oral care and professional dental treatment for existing issues.

What is a Tooth Cavity (Dental Caries)?

Tooth cavity or decomposed tooth in medical terms known as Dental Caries. Shafers in 1993 defined dental caries as as an irreversible microbial disease of the calcified tissues of the teeth, characterized by demineralization of the inorganic portion and destruction of the organic substance of the tooth, which often leads to cavitation.

This common chronic condition is mainly caused by cariogenic bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, which adhere to the teeth. These bacteria convert sugars into acid, leading to the gradual erosion and weakening of tooth structure.

The development of dental caries relies on four essential factors: bacterial biofilm (plaque), fermentable carbohydrates, dental hard tissues, and an adequate amount of time.

There is no cure for tooth cavities, once they have taken place, they cannot be reverted back.

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil, derived from the kernel of mature coconuts from the coconut palm, is a popular cooking oil with several potential benefits. It may help reduce waist circumference, boost HDL cholesterol levels, and provide antimicrobial effects due to monolaurin. Virgin coconut oil is rich in polyphenols and contains higher levels of vitamin E, offering possible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Coconut oil is neutral for cardiovascular health when consumed with other fats or supplemented with linoleic acid, as it does not inherently increase the risk of heart disease. It contains easily digestible medium-chain fatty acids, which are more metabolically efficient than long-chain fats found in other oils. Natural coconut oil retains essential nutrients, making it a safe and balanced choice for overall health when used as part of a healthy diet.

Can Coconut Oil be used to reverse tooth cavities (dental caries)?

There is no cure for dental caries. It cannot be reverted back.

Coconut oil offers various health benefits like antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is easily digestible oil, however, there is no scientific evidence or medical consensus from within the dental community that supports the claim that coconut oil can be used to reverse cavities. 

There are studies that have shown the effect of coconut oil. One such study was published in the International Journal of Health Sciences, suggesting that oil pulling may have antibacterial activity against Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans using coconut oil, where S. mutans is one of the essential factors for the development of dental caries. However, this study does not talk about the reversal of dental caries once formed.

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of the International Oral Health highlighted coconut oil's effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent in reducing bacterial colonization and significantly improving oral hygiene through oil pulling. However, the study does not support the claim that coconut oil can reverse dental caries.

Another study published in the Journal of Global Oral Health concluded that oil pulling with coconut oil is effective in reducing plaque and gingivitis. It described coconut oil as a safe, affordable, and effective option with minimal side effects, making it a valuable addition to oral hygiene practices.

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of coconut oil as an adjunct in reducing plaque and bacterial colonization that contribute to the formation of dental caries. However, no studies have indicated that coconut oil has the ability to reverse cavities or heal decayed teeth. Furthermore, there is no consensus within the dental community supporting the claim that coconut oil can reverse cavities.

Dr. Prinita Tirkey, MDS Periodontist, Rajmata Smt. Devendra Kumari Singh Deo Govt Medical College and Hospital Ambikapur, Surguja, Chhattisgarh, told Medical Dialogues, “Claiming that coconut oil can reverse cavities is an overstatement. Once dental caries begin, they cannot be reversed, as there is no cure or ingredient, including coconut oil, capable of repairing cavities. Maintaining proper oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care is the best way to prevent cavities and protect your teeth.”

To this Dr Deepika Jain, Orthodontist, Samda Superspeciality Hospital, Rajnandgaon, C.G, added, “Cavities occur when tooth decay damages the structure of the tooth, and this damage is irreversible and can only be restored with dental treatment. While coconut oil may support oral hygiene by reducing bacteria, it cannot repair cavities. For optimal dental health, focus on consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups to prevent tooth decay in the first place.”

Medical Dialogues Final Take

Coconut oil offers benefits like antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a helpful addition to oral hygiene routines. However, it cannot reverse cavities or repair decayed teeth. Cavities are permanent and require professional dental treatment. Maintaining proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is the most effective way to prevent cavities and ensure good oral health.

Hence the claim coconut oil can be used to reverse tooth cavities is False.