Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is a systematic, modern method for professional dental cleanings. Developed by EMS (Electro Medical Systems), this approach uses advanced, minimally invasive technologies as an alternative to traditional procedures. GBT is designed to be a more comfortable and efficient experience for the patient, grounded in scientific evidence.
Understanding Guided Biofilm Therapy
The core of Guided Biofilm Therapy is managing dental biofilm, also known as plaque. This sticky film of bacteria adheres to tooth surfaces and is a primary cause of tooth decay, gingivitis, and peri-implantitis (infections around dental implants). The therapy is “guided” because a disclosing agent colors the biofilm, making it visible to the clinician and patient.
Highlighting the biofilm’s exact location allows the dental professional to target its removal with precision. This ensures only affected areas are treated, supporting a minimally invasive philosophy. It also serves as an educational tool, showing patients the areas they may be missing during their daily oral hygiene routine.
The goal is to completely remove the biofilm to prevent the oral health problems it causes. The process follows protocols based on individual diagnosis and risk assessment for a personalized and thorough cleaning. The use of warmed water during the procedure enhances patient comfort.
The Guided Biofilm Therapy Protocol
The Guided Biofilm Therapy protocol is a systematic, 8-step process ensuring a comprehensive approach to dental cleanings. The protocol is designed to deliver predictable and effective outcomes for biofilm management.
The process begins with an assessment of the patient’s teeth and gums. Next, a disclosing dye is applied to make the biofilm visible. This is used to motivate and educate the patient, showing them problem areas and providing personalized instructions for improving their home care.
The fourth step uses AIRFLOW® technology to remove biofilm, stains, and early calculus. For biofilm in deeper gum pockets (greater than 4 millimeters), the fifth step utilizes the specialized PERIOFLOW® tool. This is designed to safely clean these sensitive areas, including around dental implants.
The sixth step, PIEZON®, addresses any remaining hard calculus (tartar) with an ultrasonic instrument for fine scaling. The seventh step is a final check to ensure all biofilm and calculus are removed and to apply fluoride if needed. The protocol concludes with scheduling a recall appointment based on the patient’s risk assessment to maintain their oral health.
Key Technologies in GBT
Guided Biofilm Therapy relies on a suite of advanced EMS technologies to perform the cleaning process. These tools are designed to be minimally invasive while providing a thorough cleaning of all oral surfaces.
AIRFLOW® technology uses a combination of air, warm water, and a fine powder to remove biofilm. The powder is made from erythritol, a sugar alcohol that is effective at cleaning yet gentle on tooth enamel, dentin, and soft tissues. This system cleans the teeth, gums, and tongue, providing a comprehensive cleaning experience.
For cleaning deeper periodontal pockets and around dental implants, the specialized PERIOFLOW® handpiece is used. It attaches to the AIRFLOW® unit and has a unique nozzle to deliver the powder mixture safely below the gumline. This allows for biofilm removal in difficult-to-access areas, helping manage or prevent periodontitis and peri-implantitis.
When hard calculus needs to be removed, the PIEZON® NO PAIN ultrasonic scaler is used. This instrument operates with controlled, linear movements, unlike the motions of older scalers. The technology features an adaptive power setting that adjusts based on resistance, using less power on softer deposits and increasing it only when necessary for harder tartar, which enhances patient comfort.
Who is a Candidate for GBT?
Guided Biofilm Therapy is suitable for nearly all patients and offers advantages for those with specific oral health concerns. Its gentle and minimally invasive nature makes it an option for people who experience dental anxiety or have sensitive teeth. The use of warm water and fine powder technology creates a more comfortable cleaning experience.
Patients with orthodontic appliances like braces can benefit from GBT. The AIRFLOW® technology is effective at cleaning around brackets and wires where biofilm accumulates and is difficult to remove with conventional tools. This helps prevent cavities and gum inflammation during orthodontic treatment.
The therapy is also well-suited for individuals with dental restorations like crowns, veneers, or implants. The erythritol-based powder used in the AIRFLOW® system is gentle and does not damage the surfaces of these restorations. This makes GBT a safe choice for maintaining complex dental work.
GBT is a proactive choice for patients focused on prevention. Systematically identifying and removing biofilm at each visit helps manage the root cause of common dental diseases. Regular GBT appointments, combined with personalized home care education, help patients maintain a high level of oral hygiene and reduce their long-term risk of cavities and gum disease.