In vitro Efficacy of Newly Formulated Oil Pulling against Oral Malodor Related Microbiota

Introduction: Oral malodor or bad breath is an unpleasant breath exhaled from the oral cavity and becomes physical, social and psychological impacts on affected individuals. Metabolic products, especially volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) generated by oral microbiota are major causes of oral malodor. Swishing of oil pulling, an ancient protocol is used to keep oral health in good condition with fresh breath.

Aims: This study aims to examine an in vitro effectiveness against some oral microbes related to oral malodor of the oil pulling newly formulated by Dentiste.

Materials and Methods: The oil pulling Dentiste’7M ® by Dentiste was tested for the antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans KPSK2, Lactobacillus casei ATCC393, Porphylomonas gingivalis ATCC33277, P. gingivalis W50 and Candida albicans ATCC10231 by agar disc diffusion and broth micro-dilution methods, respectively.

Results: The growth of P. gingivalis W50 and ATCC33277 was strongly inhibited by this newly formulated oil pulling. Additionally, the diluted oil pulling (1:2) still expressed inhibitory effect against this bacterium predominantly related to oral malodor. Contrarily, the oil pulling showed no antimicrobial activity against other tested microorganisms.

Conclusion: This study has provided informative data to support the use of the oil pulling specially formulated by Dentiste as a primary prevention and management of oral malodor through the reduction of a VSC producing bacterium.