Tag Archive for: ozone dentistry

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Ozone Dentistry

Ozone Therapy in Dentistry and Beyond

When most people hear the word ‘ozone’ the first thing that comes to mind usually has something to do with atmospheric conditions over the Antarctic. For those of us in the holistic dental field, ozone means much more.

The Facts About Ozone

Ozone, a gas known as O3, is a versatile bio-oxidative therapy in which oxygen/ozone is administered to a patient to obtain therapeutic benefits. Ozone therapy has been used for treatment of various diseases for more than a century. Its unique properties, noninvasive nature, absence of side effects or adverse reactions drew attention from healthcare practitioners who rightly viewed it as an important medical treatment. In dentistry, Ozone is used today in a variety of ways; in its gaseous form, as ozonated water and as ozonated oils. In all aspects of the medical field, the high oxidation potential of ozone makes is an exciting element in the fight against:

    • Bacteria
    • Protozoa (an advanced type of fungus)
    • viruses
  • fungi

Laboratory studies have long proven the promising potential of ozone therapy in dentistry, and it is used more and more in applications at dental offices all over the world.  Recognized as a preventive therapy in dental cavities or caries and an effective disinfectant in root canal work, ozone has also been used successfully in the treatment of more severe conditions including bone diseases of the jaw. It is powerful in the prevention of plaque formation and it is sometimes added to the dental unit water line to purify and disinfect water.

No matter how it is used, ozone is completely painless in its application, biocompatible and helps to stimulate blood circulation while increasing the body’s natural immune response.

Ozone Applications are Endless

Research on the use of ozone indicates that it may lend itself to a variety of health optimizing therapies in many medical modalities. The natural oxidizing properties of O3 is known to promote health in a variety of ways including;

    • Anti-aging
    • Increases oxygenation in blood cells
    • Boosts the immune system
    • Increases energy production in cells
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Reduces acidity in the body
    • Anti-microbial
  • Kills cancer cells

Prevention and Ozone Therapy in Dentistry

The use of ozone therapy in dentistry is particularly exciting when it comes to preventative care. With its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties it can not only stop the growth of cavities it may actually prevent and reverse the damage caused by cavities. Ozone’s capacity to oxidize – or essential dissolve bacterial cells makes it possible to completely halt the production of bacteria. As an agent of oxidation, ozone proves lethal to a range of harmful microorganisms without damaging healthy living cells in this process.

When ozone is used in conjunction with re-mineralizing agents it promotes the regeneration of hard, healthy tooth structure.  And under the right conditions ozone therapy can lead to remineralization of a decayed tooth, potentially restoring it to complete health.

Another way ozone lends itself to healing and prevention is in the treatment of periodontitis, or gum disease. Periodontitis is bacterial in nature and since ozone has been proven effective at eliminating bacteria, it is the perfect treatment for this disease. In addition to its antimicrobial aspects, ozone’s anti-inflammatory properties make it highly beneficial in fighting gum disease and promoting long-term healing process.  

The Bottom Line on Ozone

The availability of ozone treatment in both the medical field and the dental field is rather low in the United States when compared to its use in other developed nations. But, as research continues to prove that ozone is an effective and safe treatment, demand for its use can only continue to rise. While traditional dental practices prefer to stick with the tried-and-true methods of invasive dentistry alone, ozone therapy is fast becoming a fundamental element in the standard of care for modern holistic and natural dentistry practices. Today ozone is used in almost all aspects of dentistry.

Dr. Boyajian works in unison with qualified health experts, creating complete dental and general health programs for patients. When it comes to something as valuable as your teeth, you want to be sure they remain strong and beautiful for a lifetime. To learn more about what Ozone Therapy can do for you call our office at 844-855-8821.

Metal Dental Implants vs Ceramic Dental Implants

Metal versus Ceramic Dental Implants

Titanium Implants
Titanium metal was determined the choice material for implant designs when implants came on the market in the 1980s. When titanium implants were installed correctly, they were thought to withstand the workload of the human jaw most similarly to natural teeth. This metal had a lower risk of complications compared to other metals, and it boasted the best bone integration success rate. Titanium is the “default” material that you will find in practices that perform implant surgeries. It is less expensive, and for the majority of the population, it adequately meets patients’ needs.

Low Risk versus No Risk

There are some downsides, naturally. “Low-risk” does not mean “no-risk.” Implant complications usually involve infection at the site or weakness due to failed integration (merging with bone like a tooth’s root). Implants are a little higher-maintenance at the crown; careful cleaning must become a habit so bacteria do not grow in the microscopic crevices between implant segments.

Allergies to Metal
Also, a small percentage of the population is severely allergic to titanium. The allergy can be tested for ahead of time. Holistic-minded patients and those seeking to detox and heal their physical health should be aware that titanium, like any metal, will find its way into the bloodstream. As long as titanium implants are installed in a patient’s jaw, presence of metal in the blood and underlying health disruptions can be permanent.
Metal-free zirconia ceramic implants are newer to the U.S. market, but have been the choice implants of Europe and Canada for a while. American biological dentists have long been awaiting an alternative to titanium. Patients also seeking this alternative are heaving sighs of relief, particularly those few who are physiologically sensitive to metal.

Zirconia Implants

A Zirconia implant is slightly more expensive than titanium, but the cost covers tangible benefits that titanium cannot promise. Zirconia is just as strong as — if not stronger than — titanium or titanium alloy. It is similar to human bone in structure, thus providing the strength needed to withstand the jaw’s pressure of daily movement when chewing or biting. Because it contains no metal, the body does not reject it as a foreign object or a toxin. This creates a stronger bond and integration into the facial and jaw bones, which means the implant will last a very long time — a lifetime, if installation is done well.

Better Health

The absence of metal also promotes better health in the surrounding tissues. Zirconia is electrochemically inert and attracts less plaque than titanium. Fewer, if any, bacterial infections occur if the implant and crown are carefully maintained with daily hygiene.

Better Aesthetics

Also, sometimes titanium implants will show off slight grayish discoloration around the gum line. Zirconia implants are all white, just like a natural tooth, and will not cause aesthetic disturbances. Dr. Boyajian has over 20 years experience with placing and restoring dental implants cosmetically and holistically. And patient satisfaction tends to be higher with ceramic as well.

The Holistic Approach

As a holistically-minded dentist, I prefer using zirconia over titanium any day… if you couldn’t tell. But I offer both, and many patients are content to settle for titanium if they have tested negative for allergies. Not to mention, implants by themselves are not an end-all solution. Restoring a dying tooth successfully and preventing the need for an implant in the first place is certainly a better route to take. With the aid of ozone gas and a dental laser, restoring a tooth to health is more viable than many people (some other dentists included) think! On the other hand, sometimes implants are the best way to go. I will answer questions and provide all the information patients need so they can make the best decision for themselves. For more information on dental implants, including metal free zirconia ceramic implants call us today to schedule an appointment at (310) 670-6944.

Dr. A. J. Boyajian,  Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

Dental Care While Pregnant or Breastfeeding, Pt. 2

Most moms and moms-to-be know that dental care is recommended throughout pregnancy, since hormonal changes can cause more of a susceptibility to discomfort and infection. Dental problems also may bring to light a more serious underlying problem that these mothers should be aware of. Though it is my personal opinion that most dental evaluation and care should be taken care of before conception (a long time before conception if mercury removal is involved), I believe that light, routine dental care, such as cleanings or mild gingivitis treatment can be safe and effective during pregnancy.

Since my practice uses ozone in place of many harsher chemicals and typical dental medications, much can be done without fretting about affecting babies in utero or through mom’s milk. Healing is accelerated and accomplished more naturally when ozone is used. An already concerned mother should never be forced to compromise between “following the doctor’s orders” by getting dental care but exposing her developing children to drugs and toxins. Cleaning is harmless if there are no mercury fillings to agitate.

Many of the common drugs, painkillers, antibiotics, anesthetics, etc. used in the dentist’s office have been declared “safe,” or at least not significantly detrimental for a pregnant or nursing mother. A good dentist is cognizant of the most recent information regarding safe substances for his pregnant or nursing patients. For many patients, the reassurance that those substances are safe enough is all they need. However, others want to remain as clean and toxin-free as possible. I lean toward this side myself. Even if no adverse effects are found on growing babies, inside or outside the womb, there is no guarantee that there are other long-term consequences for dental drug exposure. Every drug is a foreign substance to the body; every drug is designed to manipulate certain functions in order to successfully carry out a medical purpose. In many cases they are lifesavers and great aids in the process of healing and managing pain.

But there is always, always a consequence, seen or unseen, for this medical/dental intervention or manipulation. It is only logical to conclude that delicately growing babies will be affected to some degree. We may not see it right away. It may remain undetected as the baby grows into childhood, then adulthood, and accumulates other health problems that would never be connected with Mom’s treatments while pregnant or nursing. The important thing is to educate yourself as best you can and make the best decisions for your family’s health.

I’ll get to the practical side of things in the next post.

Dr. Boyajian, West Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

How Ozone Promotes Speedy Dental Recoveries

Because ozone is so effective in destroying vast amounts of bacteria and germs so quickly, one may look forward to a quick recovery from an ozone-assisted therapy or rehabilitation. The bacteria are virtually nonexistent during treatment, and for a while thereafter. They therefore cannot multiply and spread as fast as they could originally. Also, because these bacteria are not present, the body’s natural immune system is given its chance to shine and “focus” on healing the battle wounds instead of constantly fighting the losing battle.

Dr. Boyajian, West Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

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Benefits of Using Ozone in Holistic Dentistry

Last fall, I was told that using ozone in my dentistry would bring major changes to my practice; more convenience, less occupied office space, and a one-solution-works-for-all ease of use really has upped our efficiency and, yes, quality, too, of dentistry. For one, you may look forward to a quicker visit. Ozone, in the gas form, can reach into the tiniest cracks and crannies in your tooth, and cleanliness is guaranteed during your root canal or gum disease treatment.

Also, this high sterilization, unlike drugs, medications, or other harmful ways of destroying bad bacteria in your mouth (AND the good bacteria, for that matter), is completely side-effect-free, causes no allergic reactions, and works at the same level of powerful decontamination for every single person.

Ozone is particularly wonderful in that it maintains aesthetic qualities; it does not damage any tooth surfaces, other hard tissues, or soft tissues. Past methods of removing an infected area of tooth included actually removing the bacteria-laden tooth structure itself with lasers, drills, air abrasion, etc., to remove the bacteria! Practicing holistic dentistry and restoring teeth with minimal invasion of the natural structure, ozone works great for us. It almost “washes out” the infection with no deterioration, damage, or discomfort.

Dr. Boyajian, West Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

Ozone and Periodontal Disease

I just went over how ozone is beneficial to the root canal therapy procedure, but it definitely doesn’t stop there. Ozone’s uses for treating periodontal disease (a.k.a. gum disease) are numerous as well.

Periodontal disease can develop as a result of a number of causes, one of them most commonly being a simple lack of thorough and committed brushing and flossing of teeth. Other causes, such as tooth damage, injury, bad habits (smoking, tobacco, junk food, etc.), or another present disease. Symptoms of periodontal disease and gum recession might even be an allergic reaction to a certain food, substance, or medication; but that is something that should be looked into by your physician. The symptoms of gum disease might range from mere gum soreness or inflammation to severe deterioration of hard and soft tissues in and around the mouth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

There are a few options for treatment, depending on the severity of the case: a deep-cleaning or surgery. Both require absolute sterility to be successful and to heal properly, and, of course, this is where ozone is again put to work. Ozone attacks and eliminates the bacteria and infectious organisms, providing successful treatment and a healthy environment for quick healing. Ozone is safe for the whole body and leaves no side effects or allergic reactions like medications or drugs do.

Dr. Boyajian, West Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

Ozone and Root Canals

I wrote not too long ago about the uses of ozone in root canal therapy. After the cavity has progressed too far and affects the tooth’s root, nerves (that’s the “ouch” factor), and sensitive life-giving anatomy, a root canal is required to clean out and seal off the damage. The highest level of sterilization is crucial to a successful root canal, as you are permanently sealing off the tooth and preserving its strength for the rest of your life.

Ozone makes the sterilization job easy… using ozone gas or ozonated water, we can continuously “wash off” the tooth being operated on in a safe, drug-less, bacteria/germ-free environment. Ozone even speeds up the process, providing us with health benefits enough to quicken healing and recovery. Less pain is experienced, and it will not cause any side effects.

But, still, brush and floss your teeth consistently so you can avoid cavities and the whole root canal scenario in the first place…

Dr. Boyajian, West Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

Cavities, Acid, and Ozone

I’ve explained how we use ozone in our dentistry in previous posts. After all this talk of nasty acid-making bacteria wreaking havoc on teeth, it becomes essential — for my ozone-using practice — to bring the greatness of O3 into the picture!

Ozone eliminates bacteria, and is, therefore, the perfect solution to cleaning an infected tooth. What’s even better, is that ozone treatment will just come in the form of ozonated water or an ozone gas. Continual application of ozone to the surgical site promotes sterility, while also speeding up the process and recovery. Ozone therapy does not cause any negative side effects or allergic reactions in patients. It simply allows the natural immune system to fight off infection.

Using ozone for cavity treatment makes the filling or restoring process much easier and smoother. Guaranteeing sterility to avoid worse problems later is crucial during any serious dental work, and ozone does the job well.

Dr. Boyajian, Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com

Using Oxygen & Ozone in Dentistry

That idea might sound quite odd and surprising, yes? This is brand-new in my practice. Read this for crucial background information:

http://www.toxinfreesmile.com/images/Ozone-Integrating%20Oxygen%20Ozone%20Thearpy%20into%20Your%20Practice.pdf

The system is basically a small, easy-to-operate machine with several tubes, bottles, and buttons all over (I ordered and received one already), and an oxygen tank. In a nutshell, it works by locally and rapidly eliminating all “bad” bacteria to the place treatment is applied, therefore providing a completely sterile environment to work in. There are no adverse reactions or side effects to worry about. Also, when used internally, it also “magnetically” leeches onto bacteria and destroys it, but does nothing to the “good” cells and bugs in your body. This allows your immune system to fully recover and restore the infection quickly and effectively, and — the best part — completely naturally!

I met the two lead investigators of a national study on the use of oxygen & ozone in dentistry (at the very bottom of the pages in the link), Dr. Mollica and Dr. Harris, at the IAOMT conference last month. They were extremely informative and generous in giving my son and daughter-in-law demonstrations (they were sick with colds that weekend, and, by inhaling the vapor, were healed within a few days! No, oxygen/ozone is not limited to dentistry only!). In a few weeks, I will be attending a class of theirs in New Jersey, where they’ll be teaching dentists how to incorporate the practice into their offices and giving out all kinds of information on its uses.

More on this topic will be written; they told me it is going to change my dentistry like nothing else, and for the better.

Dr. Boyajian, West Los Angeles

www.dentalwellnessarts.com