Ozone (O3) Therapy
Recently we have implemented Ozone therapy in our dental office.
Ozone is a powerful, naturally occurring agent that kills bacteria, fungus, viruses, and parasites. It’s significantly more effective in dental applications than antibiotics or other chemicals. We use ozone to treat gum infections, cavities and restorations, disinfect root canal-treated teeth, and manage cold sores.
How do we use Ozone (O3) in our office?
We use ozone in a variety of ways, especially for non-surgical gum treatments. It’s highly effective for treating gum infections and disinfecting areas after removing cavities (caries arrest). Ozone gas floods the internal cavity space to eliminate unseen decay.
We also use ozone to treat tooth sensitivity — especially near the gumline — which often resolves after just one or two applications.
What exactly does Ozone do?
Ozone kills harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites by attaching to their cell walls, which lack the enzymes to neutralize ozone. Healthy human cells, however, do have this enzyme and convert ozone (O3) into oxygen (O2), making it safe and even beneficial to healthy tissues.
Is ozone safe?
Yes — when used in proper concentrations and applied correctly, ozone is both safe and highly beneficial. As with any treatment, improper use can pose risks, but in a clinical setting, it’s extremely safe.
How does ozone compare to other cleaning solutions?
Ozone gas can penetrate gum pockets, eliminating bacteria, viruses, and fungi more effectively than antibiotics, especially in hard-to-reach areas. It is ideal for treating periodontal disease and disinfecting around teeth where deep pockets and recession exist. We also use ozonated water to rinse out harmful microorganisms during cleanings.
Does it have topical applications?
Yes. Ozone is excellent for wound healing and treating surface infections. It’s commonly used for oral lesions like herpes sores on the lips or inside the mouth, and it’s beneficial in managing other viral or bacterial skin conditions.
How long has ozone been used in medicine and dentistry?
Ozone has been used in medicine since the mid-1800s and in dentistry for about 80 years. The first ozone generator was invented in the late 19th century, and it has since evolved into a widely adopted therapeutic tool.
How do we generate ozone?
We use a medical-grade ozone generator. Pure oxygen flows through the device and is exposed to a controlled electrical charge, converting it into ozone gas. You may recognize the scent from the air after a lightning storm — that clean smell is ozone. Ozone quickly reverts back to oxygen unless used promptly after generation.
If you’d like to learn more about ozone therapy, call A Smiling Heart Dentistry at (425) 558-9998 today.