RESUMO
Background: Fixed orthodontic appliances are considered to jeopardize dental health due to the accumulation of oral microorganisms that may cause enamel demineralization. Oil pulling involves the use of edible vegetable oils as oral antibacterial agents. It is a practice of swishing oil in the mouth for oral and systemic health benefits. Aims and Objectives: To assess the effect of oil pulling therapy with virgin coconut oil on Streptococcus mutans count in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Methods: A total of thirty subjects were included in the study. They were divided in to 2 groups. Group A subjects were asked to swish coconut oil and Group B normal saline for a week. Streptococcus mutans colony forming units were estimated and compared. Results: A statistically significant reduction in S. mutans CFU was seen with Group A after oil pulling with coconut oil when compared to saline group (P = 0.0003. Conclusion: Edible oil-pulling therapy is natural, safe and has no side effects. Hence, it can be considered as a preventive therapy at home to maintain oral hygiene