The Misconception of Ozone and Its Use In Modern Dental Practices

In modern dentistry, ozone refers to the therapeutic use of ozone gas, which is different from the ozone found in the Earth’s atmosphere. While ozone in the atmosphere serves as a protective layer shielding the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation, ozone therapy in dentistry is generated from medical-grade oxygen. It is used on teeth by dentists like Dr. Anshuman Rawat at Advanced Dental Practices in Wrentham, Massachusetts, for its antimicrobial and therapeutic properties. 

In dentistry, ozone is considered safe when used appropriately by trained professionals. It has been utilized for decades as a disinfectant and antimicrobial agent due to its ability to destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens without causing harm to healthy tissues. Ozone therapy in dentistry is typically administered in controlled concentrations and durations to ensure safety and efficacy.

Dentists employ ozone in various ways within their practices:

1. Disinfection and Sterilization: Ozone gas is used to disinfect dental instruments, surfaces, and treatment areas. Ozone’s oxidative properties enable it to penetrate and destroy microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, effectively sterilizing dental equipment and reducing the risk of cross-contamination between patients
2. Treatment of Dental Caries: Ozone therapy is used in treating dental caries (tooth decay) as an alternative or adjunct to traditional drilling and filling procedures. Ozone gas can penetrate tooth structure and inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for decay, helping to arrest early lesions and preserve healthy tooth structure
3. Periodontal Therapy: Ozone is utilized in the treatment of periodontal disease (gum disease) to disinfect periodontal pockets and promote tissue healing. Ozone gas or ozonated water can be delivered subgingivally (under the gumline) to reduce bacterial load, inflammation, and bleeding associated with periodontitis
4. Root Canal Therapy: Ozone gas is used in root canal therapy to disinfect the root canal system and eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Ozone gas is introduced into the root canal chamber to penetrate and disinfect inaccessible areas, helping to improve the success rate of root canal treatments
5. Soft Tissue Therapy: Ozone therapy is employed in treating various oral soft tissue conditions, such as oral ulcers, herpes lesions, and mucositis. Ozone gas or ozonated water can be applied topically to oral lesions to accelerate healing, reduce pain, and prevent infection

Ozone in dentistry is a safe and effective therapy used for disinfection, treatment of dental caries, periodontal therapy, root canal therapy, and soft tissue therapy. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rawat, please call (508) 456-7111.