What Is Guided Biofilm Therapy? The Gentle, Air-Polishing Teeth Cleaning Explained
Guided Biofilm Therapy, or GBT, is a method of tooth cleaning that uses a disclosing solution to make plaque biofilm more visible. Biofilm is then removed with air polishing, which uses a controlled stream of warm water, air, and fine powder as an alternative to abrasive toothpaste and traditional scaling with metal tools. Most patients describe this method as noticeably more comfortable than the standard cleanings they’re used to.
How Guided Biofilm Therapy Works, Step by Step
With GBT, dental cleanings are more targeted and provide a gentler patient experience. During your cleaning, you can expect the following steps:
Guided Biofilm Therapy vs. Traditional Cleaning
Both approaches work. In split-mouth clinical trial published in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 41 patients received erythritol air polishing followed by ultrasonic calculus removal on one side of the mouth, and conventional ultrasonic debridement with rubber-cup and paste polishing on the other. Both methods significantly reduced plaque and gum bleeding, and at four weeks the air-polishing side showed statistically significantly less bleeding on probing.
So, the difference isn’t in whether your teeth get properly cleaned, but rather what the cleaning feels like when you’re in the chair.
Disclosing solutions reveal where plaque is hiding.
A traditional cleaning polishes every surface to the same degree. Guided Biofilm Therapy starts by making the plaque biofilm visible, so your hygienist can see exactly where it has collected before anything touches your teeth. Cleaning is most heavily focused on where the biofilm actually is, rather than everywhere.
That matters for two reasons. Healthy enamel and gum tissue get left alone. And because the disclosing solution shows you the same map your hygienist is working from, you leave knowing which two or three spots your brushing is missing at home, which is where most of the long-term benefit comes from.
Cleaning is gentler on enamel and gum tissue.
Low-abrasive air-polishing powders were developed to reduce the risk of damaging enamel during cleaning. Erythritol powder has a particle size of roughly 14 microns, which is what allows it to lift biofilm and surface staining without the same wear on the tooth surface as more abrasive pastes.
Where treatment starts
Scaling, then polish every surface
Disclosing solution first, then treat what it reveals
Biofilm removal
Ultrasonic and hand instruments, rubber cup and paste
Warm water, air, and fine powder
Instrumentation
Routine across the mouth
Targeted to remaining calculus
Contact with healthy enamel
Abrasive paste across all surfaces
Minimized
Patient takeaway
Clean teeth
Clean teeth, plus a visible map of where your home care is falling short
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
GBT is an alternative to traditional cleaning, so it will replace a standard cleaning appointment. When you visit CHS Dental for your first appointmentfirst appointment with Guided Biofilm Therapy and air polishing, our hygienist will walk you through the steps of the cleaning process and show you where you need to focus more attention during your daily oral hygiene routine. Your cleaning will take about the same amount of time as a normal cleaning appointment, but it will be more comfortable. After your cleaning, Dr. Kusek will perform a full dental exam.
Who Is a Good Fit for Guided Biofilm Therapy?
Because GBT offers a gentler, more comfortable cleaning experience, it is appropriate for those with:
Although it is well-tolerated by most, GBT with air polishing may not be appropriate for every patient. The team at CHS Dental will review your full dental and medical history to determine the right course of care.
Guided Biofilm Therapy in Mount Pleasant
Guided Biofilm Therapy and air polishing is one of many advanced treatments we offer at CHS Dental in Mount Pleasant. Dr. Kusek prioritizes the latest treatment technologies, including digital impressions, CAD/CAM milling, and same-day crowns to provide a patient experience that’s more comfortable, convenient, and effective.
Schedule your appointment at CHS Dental to experience the benefits of GBT and air polishing at your next cleaning.
Common Questions About Air Polishing
Does air polishing hurt?
Air polishing is generally regarded as more comfortable and less painful than standard cleanings. Because air polishing does not use metal scaling tools, it does not involve any scraping or pressure, so it is often preferred by those with sensitive teeth. It also uses warm water and is less abrasive than traditional cleaning. However, those with existing gum inflammation may still experience some tenderness and discomfort.
Will guided biofilm therapy remove tooth stains?
Dental cleanings with GBT can remove some light surface staining, but tooth whitening Is usually needed for stain removal.
How often should I have a cleaning with GBT?
Most patients should schedule cleanings every 6 months. GBT can replace standard dental cleanings.
Is air polishing appropriate for veneers?
Yes. Air polishing is a good fit for patients veneers, dental implants, and dental crowns, as the risk of damage to these types of restorations is very low.
Is GBT covered by insurance?
GBT is typically billed as a standard cleaning, so it is usually covered by insurance. However, you should contact your provider to confirm coverage before scheduling your treatment.
Does air polishing damage tooth enamel?
When performed by a trained dental professional, air polishing has a low risk of damaging healthy tooth enamel.