The application of ozone in dentistry: a systematic review of literature.
OBJECTIVE
(1) To systematically review the clinical application and remineralization potentials of ozone in dentistry; (2) To summarize the available in vitro applications of ozone in dentistry.


METHODS
Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, etc. (up to April 2007).


METHODS
In vitro or in vivo English language publications, original studies, and reviews were included. Conference papers, abstracts, and posters were excluded.


RESULTS
In vitro: Good evidence of ozone biocompatibility with human oral epithelial cells, gingival fibroblast, and periodontal cells; Conflicting evidence of antimicrobial efficacy of ozone but some evidence that ozone is effective in removing the microorganisms from dental unit water lines, the oral cavity, and dentures; Conflicting evidence for the application of ozone in endodontics; Insufficient evidence for the application of ozone in oral surgery and implantology; Good evidence of the prophylactic application of ozone in restorative dentistry prior to etching and the placement of dental sealants and restorations. In vivo: Despite the promising in vitro evidence, the clinical application of ozone in dentistry (so far in management of dental and root caries) has not achieved a strong level of efficacy and cost-effectiveness.


CONCLUSIONS
While laboratory studies suggest a promising potential of ozone in dentistry, this has not been fully realised in clinical studies to date. More well designed and conducted double-blind randomised clinical trials with adequate sample size, limited or no loss to follow up, and carefully standardised methods of measurement and analyses are needed to evaluate the possible use of ozone as a treatment modality in dentistry.
Azarpazhooh
Amir
A
Department of Endodontics and Community Dental Health Services Research Unit, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, 124 Edward Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6 Canada. amir.azarpazhooh@dentistry.utoronto.ca <amir.azarpazhooh@dentistry.utoronto.ca>
Limeback
Hardy
H
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003729:Dental Care; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D010083:Oxidants, Photochemical / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010126:Ozone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017213:Root Caries / Q000628:therapy; D014089:Tooth Remineralization / Q000379:methods
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D010083:Oxidants, Photochemical; D010126:Ozone