Caries Risk Reduction through Aligner Sanitization: Antimicrobial Activity of an Ozonized Olive Oil Spray—A Preliminary Ex Vivo Evaluation

Introduction. Dental caries is one of the most widespread oral diseases globally, and Streptococcus mutans is one of the main pathogenic microorganisms involved. The increasingly common use of transparent orthodontic aligners, while offering aesthetic and functional advantages, can promote microbial accumulation and, consequently, increase the risk of caries. The aim of this ex vivo study was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of an ozonized extra virgin olive oil spray (Ialozon Clean), applied to removable orthodontic masks. Material and Methods. Three upper aligners worn by three patients were used for this ex vivo work. Samples were taken with a brush from seven specific points on each device, before and after treatment with the spray. The samples were cultured on Schaedler Agar, analyzed through Gram staining, and colony-forming units (CFU) were counted. Results. A predominance of Gram-positive streptococci in pre-treatment samples and an average reduction of 99.9% in CFU/mL after product application was found. The antimicrobial effect was significant in all patients and analyzed points (p < 0.01).The Discussion. Data support the use of ozonized olive oil as a natural, safe, and effective antimicrobial agent for oral hygiene in orthodontic patients. Furthermore, the ex vivo experimental model developed in this study represents a useful and reproducible tool for testing other formulations with antibacterial action.