Draft:Guided Biofilm Therapy

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is a dental cleaning protocol developed by Swiss company EMS (Electro Medical Systems) to remove dental biofilm, a complex layer of bacteria that forms on tooth surfaces and can lead to dental diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.

GBT involves eight steps: assessment, disclosure, motivation, AIRFLOW, PERIOFLOW, PIEZON PS, quality control, and recall. The protocol utilizes EMS's proprietary technologies, including AIRFLOW (a jet of air, water, and fine powder) and PIEZON PS (ultrasonic scaling), which are designed to be gentle on teeth and gums while effectively removing biofilm, stains, and calculus.

A 2019 clinical study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that GBT resulted in a significant reduction of biofilm and gingival inflammation compared to conventional professional dental cleaning.

Another study, published in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene in 2020, concluded that GBT was effective in removing biofilm and improving patient comfort during the cleaning procedure.

However, some dental professionals have questioned the long-term efficacy of GBT compared to traditional cleaning methods, citing a lack of independent, long-term studies. Additionally, the cost of implementing GBT in dental practices may be higher than conventional cleaning methods due to the specialized equipment and training required.

Despite these concerns, the concept of biofilm-focused dental cleaning has gained attention in recent years, with a growing body of research supporting the link between oral health and systemic health. As more dental professionals adopt GBT and similar protocols, further research will be needed to establish its long-term effectiveness and impact on patient outcomes.