Ozone Therapy in Dentistry: A Natural Solution Used in Dental Hygiene for Common Oral Health Concerns

At Wholesome Smiles, we’re committed to providing safe, gentle care that supports your body’s natural ability to heal. One of the ways we do that is through ozone therapy—a modern approach to managing everyday oral health concerns using ozonated water.

Whether you’re struggling with gum inflammation, oral thrush, or sensitive tissues, ozone therapy offers a low-risk, chemical-free alternative to help manage bacteria, promote healing, and maintain balance in your mouth’s microbiome.

What Is Ozone Therapy and How Does It Work in Dental Hygiene Appointment?

Ozone therapy uses a form of oxygen called ozone (O₃)—a naturally occurring molecule with potent antimicrobial properties. In dental care, it’s used to help reduce harmful bacteria and fungi that contribute to gum disease, bad breath, and infections.

At Wholesome Smiles, we use the BioSure Personal Tumbler to create precisely calibrated 2ppm ozonated water, which we use in place of regular water during your dental hygiene appointment, rinsing, and gum treatments. This low-dose ozone water is gentle on tissue and breaks down into pure oxygen shortly after use, making it both effective and safe.

Want a quick explainer? Here's a short video that breaks down how ozone therapy supports better oral health:

🎥 Ozone Therapy With Dr. Kelly Misch

How Ozone Therapy May Help with Common Oral Conditions

Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)

Ozone may help by:

• Disrupting bacteria that cause inflammation and bleeding

• Supporting gum tissue healing

• Helping restore balance in the mouth’s natural flora

📚 Recent systematic reviews (2023) show that ozonated water significantly reduces plaque and gingival inflammation when used alongside routine dental care. (PMC11194125)

Progression of gum disease

Oral Thrush (Fungal Infections)

In patients with fungal overgrowth (e.g. Candida):

• Ozone can reduce fungal load

• Soothe irritated mucosa

• Help support the regrowth of beneficial microbes

📚 A clinical study found that topical ozone therapy significantly reduced salivary Candida colony counts in patients with oral candidiasis, highlighting its antifungal effectiveness. (PubMed 2015)

This can be particularly useful for people who wear dentures, take antibiotics, or have diabetes.

Mouth Ulcers and Gum Irritation

Ozonated water may:

• Support faster healing of minor injuries (from braces, biting, burns)

• Help reduce secondary infections

• Provide soothing relief without stinging or irritation

📚 A 2023 review highlights ozone therapy’s role in accelerating healing and reducing pain in traumatic or autoimmune oral ulcers. (ResearchGate)

Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)

In some cases, halitosis is caused by anaerobic bacteria. Ozone can:

• Oxidise and neutralise odor-causing compounds

• Help reduce plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas

• Complement good brushing and flossing habits

📚 Recent proposals (2024) suggest using ozone nanobubble water to reduce halitosis-causing bacteria, particularly in periodontal cases. (LWW 2024)

Post-Procedure Healing Support

After cleanings, extractions, or dental work, ozonated water can be used to:

• Irrigate and flush areas more effectively

• Minimise bacterial contamination

• Support tissue healing and reduce discomfort

📚 A 2023 clinical study confirmed that ozone application after molar extraction can improve healing outcomes and reduce post-op complications. (JOMOS 2023)

What Our Patients Appreciate

✅ Non-invasive, holistic

✅ Supports natural healing without harsh chemicals

✅ Can be used alongside conventional treatments

✅ Comfortable for most people, including those with sensitivities

Safety and Contraindications

Ozone therapy is well-tolerated when used in low concentrations like ours. However, it may not be appropriate for everyone. We always take a full health history first.

Ozone is NOT recommended for:

• People with G6PD deficiency

• Patients with severe asthma or reactive airway conditions

• Those with uncontrolled thyroid issues

For individuals with conditions like oral lichen planus, ozonated water is generally considered safe and may even support healing, but treatment is always tailored case by case.

Experience Mobile Dental Hygiene with a Gentle Touch

As a mobile hygiene service, we bring professional oral care directly to your doorstep—making it easier than ever to stay on top of your health.

• Convenient at-home visits

• Personalised treatment plans

• Support for sensitive patients or complex needs

Interested in Trying Ozone Therapy?

If you’re looking for a more natural, science-informed approach to managing oral health concerns, ozone therapy could be a gentle and effective option.

📩 Reach out to us at hello@wholesomesmiles.co.nz to learn more or book a visit.