Ozone Therapy
WHAT IS OZONE THERAPY IN DENTISTRY
- It is commonly heard that ozone levels in the atmosphere are used to measure pollution levels, however the ozone itself is not a hazard. Ozone in the atmosphere starts as O3, but quickly binds with atmospheric pollutants. Because of this tendency to bind with pollutants, ozone levels are measured to determine pollution levels. This is the job of ozone, to be nature’s filter of “bad” particles.
- Ozone is negatively charged and by nature looks to neutralize anything with a positive charge. “Bad” cells – bacteria, viruses, cancer cells or free radicals, etc. – in our body typically carry positive charges on their cell membranes. “Good” cells will typically have anti-oxidants on their cell membranes and will deter surface oxygenation. Positively charged cells will attract the ozone particle looking to neutralize its charge and the ozone will perforate the cell membrane and destroy it, thus destroying the “bad” cell.
How is Ozone Therapy used in dentistry?
- Periodontal disease: Ozone can be used to help treat periodontal disease by using ozonated water flushed below the gum line and/or ozone gas infiltrated into the gum tissue and supporting tissues. Gum disease is a problem that stems from oral bacteria and your immune response. As such, it can be treated safely and very effectively with ozone. This substance destroys bacteria that have invaded the gums and prompts healing by aiding in the oxygenation of connective tissues.
- Decay: In gas form, ozone can be applied to an area of decay to destroy cavity-causing bacteria. Gas form ozone can permeate areas below the gumline and into the small, deep grooves in the back teeth as easily as it does the smooth surfaces. While ozone destroys pathogens on contact, it also has a rejuvenating effect on enamel, aiding in the recalcification process to strengthen the damaged tooth. If a cavity has formed, ozone treatment will be followed by repair with a mercury-free biocompatible filling. Because ozone acts to recalcify tooth structure, areas of the tooth that have been treated with ozone are stronger than what was there before.
- Sensitivity: Teeth that have become worn or weak can feel sensitive to hot and cold. Ozone, which destroy bacteria and disrupts bacterial niches, can help with sensitivity. Patients have reported lessened tooth sensitivity after treatment.
- Safety: Ozone does not have any contraindications with other medications, therefore cross-reactions are not a concern at all. You cannot be allergic to ozone, because you cannot be allergic to oxygen.
Ozone Therapy Benefits
There are several therapeutic benefits to ozone therapy; each stemming from the powerful oxidative effect ozone has on bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses, and other pathogens. These microorganisms have few, if any, antioxidant enzymes, which make them an easy target for ozone’s oxidative power. When bacteria and other disease-causing microbes are treated with ozone, they rupture and die almost immediately. Healthy cells, due to their antioxidant enzymes, remain unscathed by the introduction of ozone in gas, ozonated water, or oil form.
Ozone is also thought to have a balancing effect on the immune system, aiding healing by calming aggravated immune cells. It is a wonderful addition to many dental treatments. Natural, safe, and effective, energized oxygen achieves excellent results with no risk of allergic reaction or contraindication. We are very experienced in using ozone and know when to use it and how to maximize the benefits. Experience the benefits of holistic dental care in the office of Dr. Jeffrey Silver.