Ozone: A Three-way Approach to Modern Dentistry
What is Ozone?
Ozone in dentistry refers to the use of ozone gas to treat different dental issues. It is a molecule made of three oxygen atoms (O3) known for its strong ability to kill germs. In dental care, ozone therapy is used to clean and treat infections like cavities, gum disease, root canal infections, and mouth sores. Known for its potent oxidizing abilities, it is highly effective in cleaning and disinfecting. This triatomic oxygen molecule is a natural and efficient solution for dealing with various dental issues.
Applying medical-grade ozone, also known as medical ozone/oxygen (MOZO), to the human body is both safe and non-toxic. Ozone therapy uses ozone's strong abilities to fight off harmful germs like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These germs don't have good defenses against ozone, so when they're exposed to it, they break apart and can't cause infections anymore. This therapy helps treat oral infections and keeps your teeth healthy.
Ozone was discovered in 1785 by Dutch physicist Martinus Van Marum (1750-1837) by perceiving a peculiar odor that generated near the electrostatic machines, but it was not until May 1840 that the German chemist Christian Friedrich Schönbein (1799-1868) synthesized it.
Read more here: Ozone Therapy in Biological Dentistry - IAOMT
How It Works
Medical ozone/oxygen (MOZO) utilized in dental procedures is a specialized mixture created through a meticulous process. This involves passing medical-grade oxygen through a device designed for this purpose. Within this device, oxygen is subjected to a high-energy electrical field. This process has been rigorously tested and approved for medical use.
Importantly, this process ensures reproducible levels of ozone at specific doses, which are crucial for its safe and effective application in dental treatments. By controlling the parameters of the electrical field, such as voltage and frequency, dental professionals can precisely regulate the production of ozone. This allows for consistency in the levels of ozone generated, ensuring predictable outcomes and optimal therapeutic benefits during dental procedures.
Furthermore, medical grade ozone is commonly used in dentistry in different forms - infused in water, oil, or as a gas. Ozone water is often used for rinsing and disinfecting the mouth, while ozone oil can be applied topically to treat gum infections and canker sores. Ozone gas, on the other hand, is used in procedures such as biological extractions to kill harmful bacteria and promote healing.
Read more here: Ozone Therapy in the Biological Dental Office - IABDM
How It Will Benefit You
Ozone is considered a "three-way approach" in modern dentistry because it offers multiple benefits and functions in three keyways:
- Disinfection: Ozone possesses potent antimicrobial properties, effectively killing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This makes it highly valuable for disinfecting the oral cavity during dental procedures, reducing the risk of infections and promoting better oral health outcomes.
- Healing: Ozone therapy has been found to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. It can enhance tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing of wounds and oral lesions. By supporting the body's healing mechanisms, ozone contributes to improved recovery following dental treatments.
- Prevention: Ozone has the ability to remineralize tooth enamel and strengthen dental tissues. This preventive aspect is crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues such as cavities and enamel erosion. Incorporating ozone therapy into routine dental care can help prevent the development of oral diseases and minimize the need for invasive treatments in the future.
To conclude, ozone is a powerful tool in dentistry that offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatment options. Its ability to disinfect, heal and prevent make it a valuable asset in the fight against dental issues.
Here at enlightenDENTAL, we use ozone in one form or another for every appointment from cleanings, biomimetic fillings, biological extractions, and more - We simply want to provide you with the best dental care and options because your smile deserves the best!