Ozone Treatment for Cavities: What You Need to Know

Traditionally, treating a cavity means using a dental drill to remove the decayed parts of your tooth. But thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, many dental practices are able to offer an alternative solution for cavities: ozone treatment. With this noninvasive procedure, your dentist can stop the decay from progressing any further. Below is a closer look at what every patient should know when it comes to ozone treatment for cavities.

What Exactly is Ozone Treatment?

Ozone is a naturally occurring gas that is found in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. When used for dental treatment, ozone can kill the harmful organisms in your mouth that cause tooth decay without damaging your oral tissues. After being applied to your cavity, the ozone will quickly break down into oxygen; this makes it a very safe option for dental treatments.

Ozone can come in different forms depending on the type of treatment being performed. When it comes to addressing cavities, your dentist will typically use ozone gas.

How Does Ozone Treatment for Cavities Work?

When you choose ozone treatment for tooth decay, it will typically involve these steps:

• Your dentist will confirm that decay is present using state-of-the-art technology. Many practices use the DIAGNOdent and Soprolife cavity detection systems to identify decay while it’s in its earliest stages.
• Using a specialized handpiece, the ozone gas will be administered to the affected tooth. It shouldn’t take long for the ozone to kill the bacteria causing the decay.
• After your ozone treatment, your dentist can repair your tooth using a tooth-colored filling.

What are the Benefits of Ozone Treatment?

Ozone treatment provides a noninvasive way to treat tooth decay without having to rely on a dental drill. The procedure typically causes little to no discomfort; you likely won’t even need a local anesthetic to numb your mouth. On top of that, since it eliminates the need for drilling, it allows you to keep more of your natural enamel.

It’s also worth noting that ozone treatment can encourage remineralization. This is a natural process where minerals in your saliva are deposited in your enamel to repair it. If your decay is still in its very earliest stages, remineralization can potentially reverse it.

If you have a decayed tooth, ozone treatment could provide a safe, natural way to prevent the problem from growing worse. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist about ozone treatment as a solution for your cavities.

About the Author

Dr. William J. Twohig has been in the dental field for well over 50 years. At his practice in Weyauwega, he focuses on providing treatments that support the health of the entire body. He is proud to offer ozone treatment as a noninvasive way to address tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. If you have a cavity and are interested in pursuing ozone treatment, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Twohig by visiting his website or calling (920) 867-3101.