Ozone in Dentistry

Ozone is a very powerful oxidizer, which is used for disinfection in the food industry, medicine and water treatment. For a few years it is used in dentistry to treat caries in a more causal way than with the use of operative procedures. Besides the direct effect of ozone on cariogenic and other bacteria, i.e. in fissures it could also promote a remineralising effect. An ozone producing dental equipment is marketed. The outcome of “ozone treatment” on enamel or dentinal caries was investigated in clinical research. But also the effect of ozone on bacteria in comparison to proven antibacterial solutions was evaluated.

The speakers will present their data on the effect of ozone on oralpathogenic microorganisms and on resident oral cells with respect to cytotoxicity, apoptosis and signal transduction (K. Huth). Furthermore the kinetics and mechanisms of microbial inactivation by ozone was investigated with two in vitro biofilm model systems (E. Zaura). The other speakers will present the clinical effects and reaction to treatment in anxious children, where deciduous teeth were treated (A. Lussi) and the clinical outcome in decayed permanent teeth as well as the priming of carious tissue for remineralisation (E. Lynch).

The aim of the symposium is to present the latest data on the use of ozone in dentistry. This evidence will give the possibility to evaluate its current use and discuss the potential of ozone and it's future possibilities.