Ozone therapy may seem like a concept out of a science fiction movie. It is actually gaining traction in the medical and dental fields today. Doctors and dentists around the world are realizing the advantages of harnessing the properties of ozone to treat several ailments.
At Integrative Holistic Dentistry, we are proud to offer ozone therapy dental treatments in Raleigh and Chapel Hill, NC, as a part of our holistic approach to oral health and improved smile. To that end, we have created this post to show you ozone therapy benefits, how it works, what to expect during ozone dental treatment, and its side effects to help you decide if it's the right option for you.
What Is Dental Ozone Therapy?
Dental ozone therapy is an innovative holistic treatment approach we use in dentistry to harness the potent disinfectant properties of ozone. Ozone, a triatomic molecule consisting of three oxygen atoms, is a powerful oxidant that's been proven effective in eliminating bacteria, fungi, and viruses. When applied to dental care, this therapy offers a range of benefits for promoting oral health.
How Does An Ozone Dental Treatment Work?
Ozone is a powerful oxidant that acts as a disinfectant due to its antimicrobial properties. When ozone gas, ozonated oil, or ozonated water is introduced into your oral cavity, it oxidizes and kills the harmful microbes that cause cavities and periodontal disease in your mouth. It will also reduce your tooth sensitivity and help to break down the plaque biofilms that cause tooth decay.
One of the benefits of ozone dental therapy is that it does not damage healthy mouth cells and tissues. Our cells have protective agents and antioxidants that can counteract the oxidative effects of ozone. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi lack these protective molecules, making them susceptible to ozone's impact.
Why Is Ozone Therapy So Popular?
Ozone therapy is gaining traction in the medical and dental fields due to its numerous benefits. Some of the top benefits of ozone therapy in dentistry include:
1. Natural and Safe
Ozone is a natural disinfectant derived from oxygen. When applied during dental procedures, it kills microbes, reduces the risk of infection, and ensures a clean oral environment. After its therapeutic action, ozone simply reverts to oxygen, leaving no harmful residues or by-products behind.
2. Promotes Healing
Ozone stimulates oxygenation in the treated area, enhancing blood flow and immune responses. This speeds up healing, making it especially beneficial after dental surgeries or extractions.
3. No Resistance Build-up:
Ozone's broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties are one of its standout features. Unlike many antibiotics and antifungal treatments, harmful microorganisms do not develop resistance to ozone, making it an enduring solution.
4. Minimally Invasive
In most ozone dental treatments, the dentist applies ozone directly to the surface of the teeth and gums. There's no discomfort, dreaded drilling, or side effects associated with more traditional dental cavity treatments. As a result, even nervous patients can enjoy ozone therapy benefits without dental anxiety.
5. Prevents Tooth Decay
Ozone therapy is one of the best ways to treat mild tooth decay painlessly. Ozone can help eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth, thus halting the progression of dental cavities. It can even reverse minor decay when applied to early lesions, potentially saving a tooth from needing a filling.
6. Treats Periodontal Disease
The anti-inflammatory properties of ozone help treat and manage gum diseases. Ozone can effectively target and eradicate the harmful bacteria causing gingivitis and periodontitis. It also promotes better blood flow, which helps improve gum tissue healing and reduce inflammation and bleeding.
7. Reduces Tooth Sensitivity
If you wince at the taste of ice cream or a sip of hot tea, ozone therapy might be the solution you need. That is because ozone effectively repairs and remineralizes weakened enamel and seals the dentinal tubules to reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli.
8. Oral Infections Treatment
Root canal treatment, canker sores, post-extraction treatment, and other oral infections can benefit from ozone's antimicrobial properties. Ozone can reduce pain and inflammation, prevent infection, and accelerate healing. Dentists can also use it to ensure no lingering bacteria remain after a root canal or dental extraction procedure, thereby increasing the treatment's success rate and reducing post-procedure infections.
9. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain Treatment
Ozone therapy can be a very effective natural treatment for TMJ pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties. When injected into or around the TMJ joint, it can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and alleviate pain.
10. Safe and Quick
Ozone therapy treatment time is minimal because no numbing is needed, and its application takes just a few seconds. Moreover, ozone breaks down into oxygen without leaving any residues, making it a safe and environmentally sustainable choice for dental care.
Ozone Dental Treatment Side Effects
Ozone dental treatment is widely regarded as a safe procedure when correctly administered. However, some potential side effects might arise, as with all medical interventions. Some common ozone dental treatment side effects include:
Respiratory Irritation: Inhalation of ozone can irritate the lungs, leading to coughing or shortness of breath. Due to controlled application, this is rare in professional dental care settings but remains a consideration.
Mucosal Sensitivity: Some patients might experience sensitivity or a mild burning sensation in their oral mucosa after ozone dental treatment. However, this typically resolves quickly.
Allergic Reactions: Though infrequent, some individuals might develop allergic reactions to ozone, manifesting as skin rashes or other symptoms.
Discomfort at Injection Site: If ozone is injected, temporary discomfort, swelling, or redness might occur at the injection site.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Ozone Therapy?
Most people are ideal candidates for ozone therapy, especially if they have dental anxiety or dislike traditional dental procedures like rotary drills. It's also a suitable option for those sensitive to dental anesthetics, eliminating the need for anesthesia in minor cavities.
However, ozone is best for early-stage decay and small cavities. If your cavity is deep, Dr. Ralph K. Mensah, your #1 holistic dentist in Chapel Hill will suggest other effective treatment strategies. If you have respiratory issues like asthma, discuss potential risks with your dentist before opting for this therapy.
What To Expect During An Ozone Dental Treatment
Before an ozone dental treatment, Dr. Mensah will discuss your medical history, the therapy, and what you can expect during treatment. If you're a good candidate for the procedure, he will create ozone gas using an ozone generator and introduce a minimal quantity of the gas into your oral cavity where treatment is needed. Depending on your dental condition, he may use the gas directly or mix it with oil or water to create an ozone solution used in the treatment.
After the ozone application, you will wait a few minutes for it to work, and your treatment will be completed. However, Dr. Mensah may have you wait for a minute or two for the ozone to break down and dissipate before leaving.
Enhance Your Oral Health With Our Ozone Therapy In Raleigh and Chapel Hill, NC
At Integrative Holistic Dentistry, we are proud to offer safe and effective ozone therapy dental treatments in Raleigh and Chapel Hill, NC to treat several dental issues and keep our patient's oral health in tip-top condition.
Dr. Mensah and his team of dental care professionals also offer other effective holistic dentistry services in Chapel Hill, like PRF bone grafting,metal-free dental implants, and safe amalgam removal to speed up recovery and restore your smile. Book an appointment today for a green and natural approach to dental care and restore your smile and oral health with our ozone dental care therapy.