Ozonetheraphy in Dentistry

Abstract

The oral cavity normally hosts some 20 g of commensal bacteria, which are well kept in check by the MALT. However, they can became pathogenic and are mostly responsible for dental decay. As reported in Chapter 1, Dr. E. Fisch (1899–1966) is considered the first dentist to use ozone in his practice and to have shown to Dr. E. Payr (1871–1946) the potent disinfectant activity of ozone. After a couple of discussions with dentists, it has become clear that they have a vast armamentarium to fight oral and dental infections. Nonetheless, since 1995 in Germany, Filippi and Kirschner have used ozonized water under pressure as a spray during dental treatment and surgical operations. Obviously, one needs an ozone generator and a reservoir of bidistilled water to freshly prepare ozonized water throughout the day. Dr. Filippi is enthusiastic about this old-new possibility and has often asked me why ozonized water works so well. Obviously, the jet of water removes all purulent material and disinfects the area. The ozone probably activates the local circulation and may stimulate the production of the usual cytokines, promoting the healing process. Indeed Filippi, at the 15^th World Congress (IOA, 2001), reported that the application of ozonized water in the oral cavity significantly accelerated wound healing in comparison to placebo treatment.