Non-contact treatment of caries with ozone - myth or reality?

Long gone is the era when caries treatment was an unpleasant and painful procedure. In modern cliques you rarely hear a drill that horrifies all its patients.

Today, minimally invasive techniques have begun to be used that involve getting rid of the disease without drilling teeth. One of them is ozone therapy.

general information

This is a non-contact method of treating cavities affected by caries. The essence of the technology is the disinfection of carious tissues with ozone due to the destruction of pathogenic microflora on surfaces.

Ozone is an unstable, highly active chemical compound with good penetrating ability, consisting of three oxygen molecules. It has a pronounced bactericidal effect, destroying up to 98% of pathogenic bacteria located in the carious cavity.

The compound, destroying the cell membrane of fungi, bacteria and viruses, leads to the death of the cells themselves. Being at the same time an oxidizing agent, ozone easily enters the affected tissues without affecting healthy ones. Essentially, it sterilizes them, preventing the disease from occurring again.

In addition to the mentioned properties, the compound has antihypoxic, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and immunocorrective effects. The list of properties includes improved blood supply to tissues, oxygen saturation of cells, and improved metabolic processes.

Ozonation is especially effective in the initial form of caries , when there is no need to fill the affected unit. The dentist only needs to perform its remineralization. The procedure can also be used to treat (sterilize) large carious cavities. But then, upon completion, the cavity must be closed with a filling.

The technique was developed and first tested in Frankfurt (Germany) in 2003. A few years earlier (in 1986), ozone therapy was used in the treatment of generalized periodontitis and gingivitis.

How does ozone work?

If periodontal disease is detected in its early stages, ozone removes the infection, improves blood circulation and accelerates healing.

As a prophylactic agent, ozone is used to treat the oral cavity, which removes bacteria and the unpleasant odor they cause. Works wonderfully against inflammatory processes in the oral mucosa.

Those who can compare the treatment of caries using an old, but not always good, drill and a stream of triatomic oxygen are especially grateful to the technique. If using drills it was necessary to drill out the entire damaged surface, and then fill the resulting gap with a cementitious composition. Now a silicone crown is attached to the tooth and ozone is supplied, which destroys microbes. Of course, this method is acceptable if caries has not yet eaten away the enamel before forming a hole. Otherwise, ozone will no longer help. After such a procedure for “ozonizing” caries, you should visit the dentist once every six months to avoid the formation of recurrent caries.

But what to do if caries has already done its rotten work and there is still a hole? In this case, ozone can reduce the specialist’s working time. The sequence of actions will be as follows:

• disinfection;
• removing damaged tissue with a drill;
• filling.

Ozone will act as an analgesic and anesthetic.

If you read an advertisement that completely promises to get rid of caries exclusively with an ozone jet, remember that this is only possible in the first and second stages of caries attack on the tooth.

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Equipment used

For ozonation in dentistry, several models of special devices are used - ozonizers, but they all have the same operating principle:

1. Air is drawn in using a special pump. It then enters the filter, where moisture and contaminants are removed.
2. Dry and clean air is supplied to the generator , where it is converted into ozone.
3. The gas is supplied through a hose , at the end of which a silicone tip is attached.
4. The vacuum pump creates a pressure below atmospheric. Due to this, the cap is hermetically “sucked” to the tooth being treated.
5. Each device is equipped with a sensor that does not allow the ozone concentration and exposure time required for treatment to be exceeded. Thus, with the initial form of caries, a small volume of the drug is sufficient with a procedure duration of 0.5 minutes.

The principle of influencing pathogenic microorganisms is simple. Ozone, after entering a carious cavity, in an artificial vacuum breaks down into atomic and molecular oxygen.

It is attracted to bacteria that are negatively infected and do not have a protective coating of cholesterol, destroying their structure. 30-40 seconds is enough for all microorganisms in the cavity to die.

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How does the procedure work?

First of all, the dentist places a special cap on the surface of the tooth. Due to the fact that air is sucked out of the cap, something like a vacuum is created. After this, through a special hole in the cap, the surface of the tooth is exposed to ozone. Ozone molecules destroy carious microorganisms within 40 seconds.

Indications and contraindications

This technique in dentistry is applicable for the following diseases:

1. Superficial caries (i.e. in the chalk spot stage).
2. Inflammation in the gums.
3. Caries of root canals.
4. Fungal infection affecting the enamel.
5. Problems related to difficulties in the appearance of teeth.
6. Diseases of the mucous membrane.
7. Pulpitis and periodontitis.
8. Oral wounds of various etiologies and stomatitis.
9. Aphthous and herpetic ulcers.
10. Bleeding gums.
11. Damage caused by prosthetic structures.
12. Disinfection of the mouth before implantation.

Ozonation is contraindicated if the patient, at the time of seeking medical help, is diagnosed with:

1. Somatic pathology in the active phase.
2. Intoxication of the body (alcohol, drugs).

The following conditions are considered absolute contraindications:

1. High sensitivity to ozone.
2. Neuropsychological disorder.
3. Tendency to convulsive state.
4. Hypotension.
5. Impaired functionality of the thyroid gland.
6. Poor blood clotting.
7. Thrombocytopenia.
8. Circulatory disorders.

Indications for dental treatment without drilling

• Average caries.
• Superficial caries.
• Caries of contact surfaces of teeth.
• Wedge-shaped tooth defect.
• Caries in the chalky spot stage.
• Caries after braces.
• Caries in the pigmented spot stage.
• Fluorosis in the spot stage
• Enamel erosion

The indications for this method cover all diseases of the hard tissues of the tooth, so the system is considered universal and the best of all treatment methods without a drill.

Advantages and disadvantages of the method

In dentistry, ozone therapy is the most painless, effective and safe non-invasive method. It is ideal for eliminating initial caries, where there is no need for anesthesia, preparation and filling of dental tissues.

The following characteristics are indicated as advantages:

• applicable in pediatric dentistry;
• high sterility due to non-contact;
• does not lead to allergies and is suitable for all patients;
• sterilization of the tooth is complete, which means that re-infection and secondary manifestations of the disease are not allowed;
• the treatment takes place quickly, and there is not even any discomfort;
• no side effects;
• serves as the prevention of caries, since the enamel is additionally strengthened.

The device that produces ozone is absolutely safe and does not pollute the environment, which is important in modern conditions.

The disadvantages of ozonation are the following facts:

1. The high cost of treatment due to the high cost of equipment.
2. Only superficial caries can be cured without filling.
3. Unsatisfactory conditions for fixing a permanent filling, since soft enamel and dentin tissue are not removed.

However, these disadvantages do not affect the overall result of the procedure.

Price

The cost of the procedure is determined transparently at the Mane Clinic dental center. We don't have any hidden fees. You can always perform ozone treatment at the most affordable cost - the price for ozonation of baby teeth at the Mane Clinic is available to all patients and is not high. On average, it ranges from 1000 – 3500 rubles.

By contacting our dental center in Moscow for help, you will always receive prompt assistance from the best dentists.

Our specialists have sufficient experience and will perform all necessary procedures competently and professionally. Bring your child to us and we will help maintain the health of his teeth and oral cavity.

Preparatory activities

No special preparation is required for treatment. Preparation for manipulation involves carrying out standard activities:

1. Instrumental and visual examination of the oral cavity , determining the stage of the disease.
2. The doctor examines the patient’s medical history to determine those categories of disease in which ozone therapy for the treatment of caries is impossible or there is a likelihood of complications.
3. Professional dental cleaning of the oral cavity from deposits formed from the breakdown of mineral compounds and small food debris.

Before visiting a dental office, a person must carry out a hygienic procedure and not take any medications other than those that are considered vital.

What are the advantages of using laser

Due to the absence of sounds and vibrations characteristic of the drill, the method of treating caries with a laser creates comfortable conditions for the patient during the procedure.

The use of a laser does not require the use of anesthesia due to the fact that the procedure does not cause any pain. And this is a huge plus for those patients who suffer from a fear of injections.

Technique

It is important to know that ozone is a toxic compound and must be handled with extreme caution and care. Only dentists who have undergone special training are allowed to work.

Doctors and clinics providing their services at home must have a certificate confirming their special knowledge and skills.

Treatment with ozone therapy involves the disinfection of “sick” tissues with ozone without mechanical cleaning and filling. The whole procedure takes place in 4 stages:

1. A special silicone cap is put on the problem unit , which is connected by a hose to an ionizing device.
2. A sterile, close to vacuum environment and pressure are created under it , the indicators of which are slightly lower than atmospheric. Due to them, the cap seems to stick to the tooth, and a hermetic connection is formed between them.
3. The device turns on and immediately begins producing and supplying ozone to the problem area.
4. After a certain time, the device turns off , the cap is removed, and the tooth surface is covered with a special composition that resembles healthy enamel in appearance.

The effect of ozone on the microflora of one unit lasts 30-40 seconds. This time is enough to destroy all pathogenic bacteria.

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Possible complications

Dentists note that in most cases of ozone therapy for caries, no complications are observed. Only in isolated situations may the patient be bothered by a burning sensation in the oral mucosa and a change in the rhythm and depth of breathing.

These sensations are short-term and disappear the next day after the manipulation.

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Features of therapy in children

Ozone therapy is considered the best method for treating most dental pathologies in children, including caries.

The procedure avoids anesthesia and filling, which children are so afraid of. It does not leave them with negative emotions and memories, is completely safe and passes without pain.

Removing carious tissues with ozone is important for children of any age. In order for this particular technique to be used in the treatment of a problematic tooth, medical help should be sought in a timely manner. Ozonation helps stop the spread of caries and prevent its negative consequences.

But the fight against the disease does not end there. In order to prevent the recurrence of the disease, parents need to have their child undergo a preventive examination in a timely manner, monitor his diet, and teach him proper oral hygiene.

Features of caries treatment with ozone

The essence of the technique is the disinfection of tissues affected by caries. As a result of the action of ozone, the process of destroying pathogenic bacteria occurs; therapy is carried out using a special apparatus that converts oxygen into ozone.

The treatment procedure does not involve the use of a drill to prepare teeth, but if caries affects the dentin and a hole has already formed in the enamel, then it will have to be slightly expanded, and this is not possible without drilling. A drill should also be used in cases where significant destruction of soft tissue is diagnosed. In such a situation, drilling cannot be avoided, since otherwise it will be impossible to install the filling material.

Alternative methods

Treatment of dental caries without drilling the affected units has become widely practiced in dental clinics. In addition to ozone therapy, ICON technology and laser have found their application.

Laser Application

The procedure is carried out using a laser machine, without direct contact with the diseased unit.

The laser beam has a selective effect, i.e. it does not touch “healthy” tissues. Under its action, infected tissues evaporate and pathogenic bacteria die.

The technique has its advantages over classical therapy:

1. There is no tissue heating or vibration, which causes discomfort and pain.
2. There is no need to inject an anesthetic as the process is painless.
3. There is no psychological discomfort associated with the operation of the drill.
4. The method is indicated for use in any age group of patients, including children.
5. It takes place faster than conventional treatment.
6. Prevents secondary manifestations of caries.
7. The laser does not damage healthy neighboring tissues.

The disadvantages of laser treatment include the following facts:

1. High cost due to the high cost of equipment.
2. Working with the equipment requires special training from a doctor, which also affects the overall cost.
3. The difficulty of performing the manipulation due to the inevitability of working in darkened glasses, which deteriorates the view of the operated field.
4. The laser is used only for cleaning out superficial lesions, but is not suitable for cleaning deep cavities.
5. There is a risk of the filling falling out due to the heating of dental tissue by the beam.

Lasers are used in dentistry not only in the fight against caries. It is used for diagnostics and surgical operations.

ICON treatment

This method appeared 10 years ago and is an alternative to remineralization. Allows you to cope with caries at its initial stage.

Icon is the name of a new polymer material that fills shallow grooves and pores in enamel.

The features of the method include the following characteristics:

1. The treatment takes place without a drill.
2. The method is non-traumatic, absolutely safe, and does not involve the introduction of anesthesia.
3. The speed of the procedure is high (it takes 15-20 minutes per affected unit).
4. The area treated with polymer is visually no different from the natural elements of the jaw arch.

The essence of the process comes down to etching the affected tooth surface with hydrochloric acid. To prevent the acid from touching the gums and healthy tissues, they are covered with a latex protective plate. After cleaning, the cavity is filled with polymer.

Disadvantages of ICON treatment:

1. Not intended for dentin.
2. It costs more than the classical method.
3. Application requires special training and a certain level of knowledge from the dentist.

Price

Modern treatment technologies mean expensive dental services. The main reasons for this price are the high cost of the equipment and materials used, as well as the increased requirement for specialist qualifications.

It is difficult to name the exact cost of caries treatment services using one of the named methods. The numbers will depend on the pricing policy of the clinic, its status, level of qualifications and training of the doctor. So, treatment:

• ozone therapy will cost from 1,000 rubles. up to 1500 rub. for a tooth;
• ICON – from 2,000 to 5,000 rubles;
• laser – 2500-5000 thousand rubles.

The video provides additional information on the topic of the article.

Reviews

Reviews about ozonation are for the most part only positive. Many patients were able to appreciate the safety, painlessness, and most importantly - the effectiveness of the procedure, which can cope with caries quickly.

If you have similar treatment experience and would like to express your opinion about the effectiveness of this procedure, please share your feedback in the comments to this article.

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