Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) and traditional Scaling and Polishing (SAP) differ significantly in their approach to dental cleaning. GBT is a systematic, evidence-based approach that focuses on biofilm removal before any scaling is performed. It uses air polishing technology with fine powder to gently remove biofilm and stains, making calculus (tartar) visible and easier to remove.

SAP, on the other hand, typically involves manual or ultrasonic scaling to remove calculus, followed by polishing with an abrasive pumice. GBT is designed to be less abrasive to tooth surfaces and can be used to remove biofilm from various areas of the teeth, including those that may be harder to reach. It also allows for better visualization of the tooth surface during treatment, potentially leading to more thorough cleaning.

Choosing Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) offers several advantages over traditional cleaning methods. GBT is designed to be a more comfortable experience for patients, often reducing sensitivity and discomfort during the cleaning process. It works to remove biofilm and stains even in hard-to-reach areas, leading to a more thorough clean.

GBT is designed to be less abrasive to tooth surfaces and soft tissues compared to traditional methods, helping to preserve tooth structure over time. It also allows for better visualization of the tooth surface during treatment, which can assist in targeted cleaning. Additionally, GBT can be particularly beneficial for patients with dental implants, orthodontic appliances, or sensitive teeth. Its systematic approach ensures consistent and comprehensive cleaning, potentially improving overall oral health outcomes.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is suitable for everyone of all ages.

General Dental Maintenance
Guided Biofilm Therapy manages biofilm and prevents periodontal and peri-implant disease by helping control oral diseases.

Patients with Braces or Clear Aligners
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) hinders the progression of gingival overgrowth, gingivitis and gum recession for patients with orthodontic appliances. It can help with early-detection and prevention of white spots and dental caries.

With GBT, the integrity of orthodontic appliances are maintained, thus minimizing the accumulation of biofilm.

Patients with Dental Implants
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is the only reliable and predictable dental maintenance solution for patients who have dental implants.

If you have dental implants, GBT can preserve and maintain your implants pre and post-treatment.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is generally considered beneficial for your teeth. The treatment focuses on gentle yet thorough removal of biofilm and stains, which are primary contributors to dental issues like cavities and gum disease. By effectively eliminating these harmful substances, GBT helps maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

The air polishing technology used in GBT is less abrasive than traditional scaling methods, which helps preserve tooth enamel over time. This is particularly important for long-term dental health. Additionally, GBT allows for cleaning of hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a more comprehensive treatment. Regular GBT sessions can contribute to better oral hygiene, potentially reducing the risk of dental problems in the future.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is designed to be gentle on your teeth and is unlikely to cause damage when performed correctly by a trained professional. The air polishing technology used in GBT is less abrasive than traditional scaling methods, which helps preserve tooth enamel over time.

However, as with any dental procedure, it is important to have it performed by a qualified professional who can adjust the treatment to your specific needs. They will consider factors like the condition of your teeth and gums, any existing dental work, and your overall oral health. If you have concerns about potential damage, discuss them with your dental provider. They can explain the precautions taken during GBT to protect your teeth and address any specific worries you may have.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) employs several methods to help prevent tooth decay. Firstly, it uses air polishing technology to thoroughly remove biofilm (plaque) from all tooth surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas. This biofilm removal is crucial as plaque is the primary cause of tooth decay.

Secondly, GBT allows for better visualization of the tooth surface, enabling the dental professional to identify and address early signs of decay. The treatment can also include the application of fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria.

Lastly, GBT is often combined with patient education on proper oral hygiene techniques and dietary advice to prevent future decay. By providing a thorough clean, GBT plays a significant role in a comprehensive approach to stopping tooth decay.

You should return for Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) active maintenance every 4 to 6 months after your treatment.

To book a follow-up appointment, simply head to our patient experience specialists after your appointment to arrange for a follow-up date.

Regular dental maintenance prevents potential dental problems that might require costly treatments such as dental implants, root canal treatment or crowns.

Even if you undergo Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), regular maintenance dental cleanings are still important. GBT is not a substitute for ongoing dental care. The frequency of your cleanings will depend on your individual oral health needs, which your dentist will assess.

For many people, GBT can become their regular cleaning method, replacing traditional scaling and polishing. The intervals between these GBT sessions are typically similar to those for traditional cleanings – often every four to six months for individuals with good oral health.

However, some people may need more frequent cleanings, whether GBT or traditional, due to factors like gum disease, rapid tartar buildup, or other oral health issues. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedule based on your specific needs and the condition of your teeth and gums.

The recommended interval between consecutive Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) sessions can vary depending on your individual oral health needs. For many patients with good oral health, a typical average interval is every six months, similar to traditional dental cleaning schedules.

However, some individuals may require more frequent GBT sessions. This could be the case if you have a history of gum disease, tend to accumulate plaque and tartar quickly, or have other specific oral health concerns. In these cases, your dentist might recommend GBT every three or four months.

On the other hand, some people with excellent oral hygiene and low risk of dental problems might only need GBT once a year. Your dentist will assess your oral health status, consider your dental history, and take into account your home oral care routine to determine the most appropriate interval for your GBT sessions.

Yes, Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) can be combined with other dental treatments or procedures. In fact, GBT is often used as part of a comprehensive dental care plan. It can be particularly beneficial when combined with treatments for gum disease, as the thorough biofilm removal can help improve gum health.

GBT can also be used in conjunction with cosmetic dental procedures. For example, it might be performed before teeth whitening to ensure the teeth are thoroughly clean, potentially enhancing the whitening results. For patients with dental implants or orthodontic appliances, GBT can be an effective way to clean around these structures.

Additionally, GBT can be part of a preventive care regimen, combined with fluoride treatments or dental sealants. Always discuss with your dentist how GBT fits into your overall dental treatment plan to ensure you are receiving the most comprehensive care possible.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is generally suitable for individuals with sensitive teeth or gums. The air polishing technology used in GBT is typically gentler on teeth and gums compared to manual or ultrasonic scaling.

For patients with sensitivity, the dental professional can adjust the settings of the air polishing device to ensure comfort. The use of warm water during the procedure can also help reduce sensitivity. Additionally, GBT doesn’t typically require scraping or prodding of teeth and gums, which can be a source of discomfort for those with sensitivity.

However, it is important to communicate any concerns about sensitivity to your dental provider before the treatment. They can tailor the GBT procedure to your specific needs and may recommend desensitizing treatments before or after the cleaning if necessary.

As the name suggests, Airflow uses high pressure air to clean teeth, instead of traditional scaling and polishing tools and techniques. This makes Airflow teeth cleaning less painful and invasive to your teeth and gums than your usual scaling and polishing treatment.

Many patients find it more comfortable than traditional scaling and polishing methods. The air polishing technology uses a fine powder and water spray to gently remove biofilm and stains from teeth surfaces.

Some patients might experience a slight sensitivity to the air or water, particularly if they have exposed root surfaces or generally sensitive teeth. However, this sensitivity is usually mild and temporary. The dental professional can adjust the settings of the Airflow device to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

If you are concerned about potential discomfort, do not hesitate to discuss this with your dental provider before the treatment. They can explain the process in more detail and take steps to minimize any potential discomfort you might experience.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) can be used for patients with gum disease as part of their dental care plan. This treatment approach is designed to remove biofilm, which is associated with gum inflammation and disease.

For patients with gingivitis or early-stage periodontitis, GBT can help remove the biofilm that causes gum inflammation. The air polishing technology can access areas that are difficult to clean with traditional methods, including deep periodontal pockets.

In cases of more advanced gum disease, GBT might be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan and combined with other periodontal treatments. However, the specific approach will depend on the severity of the gum disease and other individual factors. Your dentist or periodontist will assess your condition and determine if GBT is appropriate as part of your gum disease treatment.

It is not considered normal for gums to bleed during teeth cleaning, including during Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT). However, some bleeding can occur, especially if you have existing gum inflammation or if it has been a while since your last professional cleaning.

Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gum line. During the cleaning process, whether it’s GBT or traditional methods, this inflamed tissue may bleed slightly when disturbed.

GBT is generally gentler on the gums compared to traditional scaling methods, which may reduce the likelihood of bleeding during the procedure. If you are experiencing persistent gum bleeding during or after dental cleanings, it is important to discuss this with your dentist. Regular professional cleanings and good home oral hygiene can help improve gum health and reduce bleeding over time.

GBT may be included as part of a care plan to help manage bad breath or halitosis. Bad breath is often caused by the presence of bacteria in the mouth, particularly those that reside in the biofilm (plaque) on teeth and tongue surfaces.

GBT helps remove biofilm from all tooth surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can accumulate. By thoroughly eliminating this bacterial buildup, GBT can address one of the primary causes of bad breath.

Additionally, the air polishing technology used in GBT can help remove stains and food particles that might contribute to unpleasant odors. Some GBT protocols also include tongue cleaning, which can further help in managing halitosis.

However, it’s important to note that persistent bad breath can sometimes be a sign of other dental or health issues. If bad breath continues to be a concern after GBT and good home oral care, it’s advisable to consult with your dentist for a more comprehensive evaluation.

Yes, Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is not only suitable for individuals with dental implants, but it’s often recommended as a cleaning method for implant maintenance. The air polishing technology used in GBT is able to clean around dental implants without risking damage to the implant surface.

Traditional scaling instruments can potentially scratch the surface of dental implants, which could lead to bacterial accumulation and potential implant complications. GBT, on the other hand, uses fine powder particles in a controlled air-water spray, which helps remove biofilm and stains without causing abrasion to the implant surface.

GBT can clean not only the visible parts of the implant but also reach into the spaces around the implant where bacteria tend to accumulate. This helps maintain the health of the gums surrounding the impact, which is important for implant maintenance.

Yes, Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) can be safely used for patients with dental restorations such as crowns or veneers. In fact, GBT is often preferred for cleaning these types of restorations because it is gentler and less abrasive than traditional scaling methods.

The air polishing technology used in GBT effectively removes biofilm and stains from the surfaces of crowns and veneers without risking damage to these restorations. This is particularly important because maintaining the integrity and appearance of dental restorations is crucial for their longevity and aesthetic appeal.

GBT can clean around the margins of crowns and veneers, where bacteria often accumulate, helping to prevent decay and gum problems in these areas. However, it is important that the dental professional performing GBT is aware of all your dental restorations to ensure they are using the appropriate techniques and materials for your specific situation.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is generally safe for children and is often integrated into pediatric dental care. The gentle nature of the air polishing technology used in GBT makes it particularly suitable for young patients who may be anxious about dental treatments or have sensitive teeth.

For children, GBT can be less intimidating than traditional scaling methods as it does not involve scraping or prodding of the teeth. The procedure is typically quicker and more comfortable, which can help create positive associations with dental visits.

GBT helps remove biofilm and stains from teeth of children, including around orthodontic appliances if the child has braces. It can be particularly useful for cleaning the deep grooves in molars, which are often difficult to clean thoroughly with traditional methods.

However, the use of GBT in children should be based on their individual needs and dental health status. Your pediatric dentist can advise if GBT is appropriate for your child and at what age it might be introduced into their dental care routine.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) does not have a specific age range where it should not be used. It is generally considered suitable for patients of all ages, from children to older adults. However, the appropriateness of GBT is determined more by the oral health status and specific needs of an individual rather than age.

For very young children, the dentist might prefer traditional cleaning methods until the child is old enough to cooperate fully with the GBT procedure. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis.

In older adults, GBT can be particularly beneficial. It’s gentle on sensitive gums and can clean around dental work that’s common in older patients, such as bridges, implants, and dentures.

The key is that the dental professional should assess the individual needs of a patient, considering factors like oral health status, presence of dental restorations, and ability to tolerate the procedure. They can then determine if GBT is the most appropriate cleaning method, regardless of the age of the patient.

After a Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) treatment, there are typically a few aftercare instructions to follow:

1. Avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes after the treatment, especially if a fluoride application was part of your GBT session.
2. If you experience any sensitivity, it should be mild and temporary. You can use a sensitive toothpaste if needed.
3. Continue your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing twice daily and flossing once a day. Your dental professional may demonstrate optimal brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your needs.
4. If any special products were recommended during your GBT session, such as a specific mouthwash or toothpaste, incorporate these into your routine as advised.
5. Maintain a balanced diet and limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks to help maintain the results of your GBT treatment.
6. If you notice any unusual symptoms or have concerns following your GBT treatment, do not hesitate to contact us.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Your dental professional may provide more specific instructions based on your individual oral health needs and the particular details of your GBT session.