THE USE OF OZONE THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF ENDODONTIC INFECTIONS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This article analyzed the scientific evidence regarding the use of ozone therapy in the treatment of endodontic infections, considering antimicrobial efficacy, benefits, risks, and limitations. An exploratory and qualitative literature review was conducted in the SciELO, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Virtual Health Library databases, using search terms in Portuguese and English related to ozone therapy, endodontics, Enterococcus faecalis, and infection. Eight studies published in the last five years were selected, including clinical trials, literature reviews, and in vitro and ex vivo studies. In general, ozone demonstrated antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory properties, and the potential to reduce postoperative pain and promote tissue repair. The results, however, varied depending on the form of application, concentration, exposure time, activation method, and the microorganism under investigation. Gaseous ozone showed superior results compared to ozonated water but was less effective than sodium hypochlorite in reducing E. faecalis. Thus, ozone therapy shows potential as an adjunctive treatment for endodontic infections, but the evidence does not yet support its use as a replacement for conventional disinfection methods. Further randomized clinical trials, with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up, are needed to confirm its clinical effectiveness.