For patients seeking a more natural way to protect their teeth and gums at their upcoming dental appointments, ozone therapy may be the answer. Although not widely known about, these treatments use the ozone molecule to enhance a variety of common oral health procedures, improving their outcomes naturally. Here’s a closer look at this versatile colorless gas, and how it could benefit your smile!
What is Ozone?
When most people hear the word ozone, they probably think of the ozone layer that protects the earth from the sun’s harmful UV rays. In dentistry, however, it refers to the ozone molecule, which consists of three oxygen atoms that are bonded together to form a negatively charged particle which appears as a colorless gas.
How is Ozone Used in Oral Health Treatment?
Ozone can be used in a variety of dental treatments in the form of gas, water or oil. These may include:
- The prevention and management of tooth decay. Ozone’s antibacterial properties could prevent small cavities from growing larger. It can also be used to disinfect decay underneath dental restorations.
- During root canal procedures to aid in the disinfection of the tooth, tissues, and around the tip of the root to help keep the infection from spreading.
- When treating periodontal disease, ozone may be beneficial when applied directly to the tissue, allowing it to infiltrate the collar of the gum surrounding the teeth and any abscesses.
Do I Need Ozone Therapy?
While your dentist is the best person to determine if ozone therapy will be beneficial to your individual treatment plan, often it can be extremely helpful, especially when any of the above conditions exist.
Ozone therapy is an all-natural way to improve the outcomes of a variety of important treatments, assisting in protecting the teeth and gums from the spread of infection and decay without the use of man-made chemicals or other products like antibiotics that could have uncomfortable side effects and don’t help the healing process.
Remember, while ozone therapy may not be a household name, it’s been trusted for use in dentistry for nearly a century. Thus, you can rest assured that this safe, all-natural treatment can help improve the outcomes of your oral health treatments without any of the potential side effects of other options like antibiotics.
About Dr. David
Dr. Reed David earned his undergraduate degree at East Tennessee State University and his dental doctorate at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. Today, he is as keen a student as ever, often taking over 100 hours of continuing education each year, and is especially passionate about all things dental wellness. He is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and The Institute for Biological Dentistry. To schedule an appointment at Elevate Dentistry Charleston, visit our website or call us today at 843-571-3560.