New therapeutical prospects at Dental Hygienist's disposal: Ozone and Laser therapy

Aim. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the action mechanism of Ozone and Laser, and to appraise the possible applications for the dental hygienist in a primary and secondary prevention program through a literature review. Methods.This study was developed through an extensive revision of the current literature and with a questionnaire directed to practicioners. Results. The use of ozone is spreading in dentistry (for its oxidizing and bactericidal power) thanks to the development of closed-circuit devices capable of producing vacuum ozone and to carry it directly on the oral lesion in a condition of absolute safety for the patient. The ozone therapy in dentistry led to inactivation of 99.9% of cariogenic bacteria carrying out also other actions like analgesic or anti-inflammatory. The use of laser technology is achieving high standards in dentistry with established protocols and an excellence state of the art. The use of Laser can make significant benefits in dental hygienist daily clinical practice: the effect of bacterial decontamination, the analgesic, the desensitizing effect and its use in the process of teeth whitening. The use of laser technology allows to shorten much time of professional services, offers a more comfortable and painless technique. Conclusions. The ozone and the laser may enter in dental hygienist daily clinical practice, being a valuable aid both in a primary and secondary prevention.