Effectiveness of ozone therapy against endopathogenic microorganisms: literature review

Introduction: The scientific community is in constant search for therapeutic alternatives that promote the disinfection of root canals. Among the various existing protocols, ozone therapy has been shown to be a viable technique for this purpose. Thus, the aim of the present literature review is to describe the effectiveness of ozone therapy on reduction of endopathogenic microorganisms. Literature review and discussion: Most part of the literature presents in vitro and clinical studies on the subject and demonstrate that the liquid and gaseous ozone have antimicrobial properties and are efficient in disinfecting the root canal system. However, due to the different protocols for ozone therapy use associated with the methodological differences from the studies, it can be indicated that ozone therapy seems to be an efficient disinfection of root canals, but there are controversies about its use as a complementary or substitute technique in place of traditional irrigation solutions. Conclusion: It is not yet possible to consider ozone as a substitute for hypochlorite sodium. However, some authors report that ozone can be used as a supporting agent on reduction of microorganisms present in the root canals and a viable alternative for cases in which hypochlorite is contraindicated.