Ozone kills a host of pathogens and is versatile in that it can be used in various mediums such as a gas, infused in water and in oil, and has a variety of applications as well as supports and enhances conventional treatment. How we use ozone:
- When dental equipment requires the use of water, rather than using tap or distilled water, we use Ozone water. Aerosols from working in patients’ mouths are of great concern. By using Ozone water, we have the opportunity to minimize harmful aerosol production right at the source of potential exposure.
- Instead of using chemical based antimicrobials for dental cleanings, we use Ozone water and for procedures requiring irrigation of bacterial and fungal debris.
- For deep cavities, reducing the possibility of needing root canal treatments.
- For periodontal gum pockets, possibly minimizing the need for gum surgery.
- For desensitizing sensitive teeth.
- As a take home ointment for infections.
WHAT IS OZONE?
Ozone is Mother Nature’s way of cleaning up pollutants; ozone is a natural way to kill bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungus. These pathogens thrive in an oxygen poor environment. Ozone is a powerful oxidant, delivering oxygen to the body. The cellular membrane of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungus do not have antioxidants to protect them from this powerful oxidant. Healthy cells on the other hand have antioxidants and are unaffected by ozone and remain intact. An oxygen-rich environment is created where healthy cells thrive and pathogens die. There are no side effects from ozone itself as the bi-products of ozone is simply water and oxygen, the two elements that are essential to life.
Some people have a misconception that ozone is a pollutant when in reality ozone helps to remedy pollution. Oxygen has 2 oxygen molecules (O2). When ultraviolet radiation from the sun or lightning strikes the O2 molecule, it splits it into two singlet of oxygen (O1 + O1). Single oxygen molecules O1 combine with other O2 molecules to form a molecule consisting of 3 oxygen (O3) or ozone. Ozone (O3) is able to oxidize pollutants and is the reason for the clean smelling air after a thunderstorm and even from waterfalls!
HOW IS OZONE MADE?
Medical grade oxygen is passed through an ozone generator which simulates lightening, splitting oxygen and then recombining the singles with oxygen to form ozone (O3).
Ecologic Dentistry uses an ozone generator by Longevity, which has the ETL approval. In order to receive this approval, the generator is disassembled and rigorously tested for quality and safety. Longevity generators are inspected for rubber and plastic components, as these will contaminate ozone. Rest assured that the ozone administered at Ecologic Dentistry is pure and uncontaminated.
Voted one of Seattle's Top Dentists four years in a row
