Dental caries or cavities, are bacterial infections that erode and destroy the tooth structure. This is primarily due to the acids produced by the food we consume. Ozone has been used in industrial, dental, and medical applications for quite some time. Because it is toxic to most of the bacteria that cause dental decay, injecting it into the decayed tooth may reduce the number of such bacteria.
Ozone has also been commonly used as a sterilizer in hospitals and certain municipal water supply systems to kill bacteria found in water.
Ozone Uses in Dentistry
According to the IN article, dentists can use ozone as gas, water, or oil in treating various dental issues, including:
Endodontics
Endodontic procedures, such as root canals, are required when the pulp tissue inside a tooth becomes severely infected. Root canal therapy removes only the infected tissues, allowing the natural tooth to remain and function generally in the mouth. Ozone may aid in the disinfection of the canal inside the tooth and the tissues surrounding the tip of the tooth root. This can help to keep the infection at bay.
Tooth Decay
One of your dentist’s main concerns is preventing and managing tooth decay. A study in the Journal of the Formosan Medical Association (JFMA) claims that the antibacterial properties of ozone may help prevent small cavities from growing larger in pits and fissures on the biting surfaces of back teeth. Furthermore, ozone may help disinfect decayed areas beneath tooth restorations.
TMJ Pain
Temporomandibular disorders are a group of disorders that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A person may experience jaw pain and find it difficult to open their mouth or chew comfortably because of this condition. However, research published in Medical Principles and Practice found that ozone injections helped relieve symptoms in patients suffering from TMJ pain, indicating yet another potential application for ozone therapy.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is the most common oral condition in the world. It begins as an asymptomatic infection in the gums but can spread to the part of the jawbone that forms the sockets supporting the teeth over time. Periodontal disease can eventually lead to losing supporting bone and teeth in your mouth.
Ozone has shown promise in disinfecting areas of chronic gum infection. Dentists can apply it directly to the gums as a gas, oil, or water, allowing the ozone to permeate the gum collar surrounding each tooth and any abscesses.
Other Infections
Ozone has also been effective in treating other conditions associated with the tissues in and around the mouth, such as:
- Sinus infections
- lesions caused by viruses and fungi.
This treatment is very beneficial to our teeth in protecting us from bacteria that cause various dental issues.
How Does Ozone Work?
When used on the teeth and gums, ozone eliminates bacterial waste products, slows the development of cavities, and speeds up remineralization, strengthening the teeth. This treatment is beneficial for people exhibiting early symptoms of tooth decay or gum disease because it has no known side effects and is a simple procedure.
If you prefer a more holistic approach to dental care, this is an option for you because this is a non-invasive and all-natural treatment method. Contrarily, if you wish to enhance your smile, cosmetic dentistry is another alternative. This field of dentistry focuses on improving a person’s smile, gums, and teeth.
You can check websites like https://houstonbiologicaldentist.com/ozone-treatment/ for more information.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry addresses cosmetic issues such as stained, chipped, and gapped teeth, which can make you feel self-conscious.
Cosmetic dentists provide services to:
- Remove stains and lighten teeth
- Straighten teeth
- Reshape teeth
Cosmetic dentists may perform the following procedures:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental Veneers
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Bridges
- Dental Implants (check out ceramic implant dentist if interested)
- Tooth-colored fillings
Even minor changes in cosmetic dentistry can give your smile a whole new look and boost your confidence. Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way since it was first introduced in the 1800s by American-born dentist Newell Sill Jenkins. It was an obscure practice that many in dentistry avoided at the time.
On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry is now a trendy option among all age groups and is recognized as a legitimate and much-needed practice in dentistry. You can learn more here by speaking with professionals.
Conclusion
Ozone dentistry is a relatively new treatment that uses ozone’s antibacterial properties to prevent and treat dental problems and other infections affecting the tissues in and around the mouth. On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry can address aesthetic concerns, as well as protect teeth from bacteria. When combined, they can improve dental health and self-esteem. Make sure to choose reputable cosmetic dentists for a new and improved smile.
