Ozone is a form of oxygen that is used as a powerful oxidizing agent to purify drinking water and is also a natural biocide that kills bacteria, viruses, mold and mildew. High concentrations of ozone will kill bacteria very quickly in cavities and prevent further decay. The ozone treatment has been used for quite some time in Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand but has not yet received FDA approval in the United States.
Benefits
The ozone treatment is perfect for nervous or anxious people who are afraid of going to the dentist. It does not require the use of drills, fillings or anesthetics. It kills 99 percent of bacteria found in cavities and can whiten any discoloration. It is not a fire hazard and will not explode and will not irritate the skin or eyes nor damage hair or clothing. Ozone will also not leave a chemical taste or smell and does not cause cancer.
According to safedentistry.com, ozone therapy showed successful results in clinical tests performed at St. Bartholomew's Hospital in London and at the Royal London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
The Treatment
Cavities are caused by bacteria that produce a sticky substance called plaque, which adheres to the tooth surface. This bacteria consumes sugars that are left in the mouth from the foods we eat. These sugars are then converted into harmful acids that will dissolve the tooth enamel if they are left on the surface for a long period of time. When the ozone treatment is used, a dentist will use a laser to identify decay and bacteria on the teeth. A silicone rubber cup is then used to direct the ozone onto the affected tooth. Once the bacteria is eliminated, the dentist will then place a special mineralization agent that will enable healing onto the cleansed area. The patient will be given a special toothpaste and mouthwash to use at home to help their teeth re-mineralize.
Each treatment lasts 10 to 40 seconds and is repeated at monthly intervals until the tooth re-hardens, usually three to six months total. New cavities can be treated without tooth removal, but if the cavity is too deep, some teeth must be removed to ensure proper penetration of the ozone. 90 percent of teeth will respond favorably if the proper care is used at home, according to Granta Dental. The dentist will know for sure if the treatment is working in four to eight weeks.
At-home Care
To ensure success with the ozone treatment, employ these at-home practices:
1. Regular and effective brushing and flossing to make sure that the teeth are kept free of harmful bacteria and plaque.
2. Minimizing your intake of sugary foods and drinks and reducing the intake of acidic drinks.
3. Long-term, regular use of fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.
4. Using xylitol artificial sweetener as a substitute for sugar. Xylitol can be found in some chewing gums and mouthwashes and also in diabetic confectionaries.
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