In the realm of dental care, advancements are continually being made to improve oral health outcomes and experiences. One such innovation that has gained traction in recent years is Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), a comprehensive approach to dental hygiene that targets biofilm removal, thus promoting oral health and preventing various dental issues.
While Air Polishing has been around for decades, it hasn't really been used much since new types of powders have been developed renewing use over the recent years. We have been using these new powders for the past 10 years with Perio PLUS glycine based powder as it does not induce emphysema in seniors. GBT was introduced in North America in 2016 and has just had renewed interest in the last few years here in Canada.
At the heart of GBT lies the selection of appropriate air polishing powders, each offering unique benefits tailored to individual needs. Among the choices available are Classic (baking soda), Erythritol in PLUS powder, and Glycine for PERIO flow powders, each contributing distinct advantages to the GBT process.
Before delving into the specifics of air polishing powder choices, it's essential to grasp the fundamentals of Guided Biofilm Therapy. Unlike traditional dental cleaning methods, which primarily focus on removing visible plaque and tartar, GBT takes an approach by targeting the invisible enemy: biofilm. Biofilm, a complex community of bacteria that adheres to tooth surfaces and interdental spaces, is a leading cause of dental caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues. GBT aims to disrupt and eliminate biofilm through a systematic, evidence-based approach, ensuring thorough cleaning and improved oral health outcomes.
Before air polishing is used, the teeth are disclosed with a solution that allows your hygienist to see the plaque biofilms on your teeth. This helps you to see areas you are missing in order to help improve your home care and thus reducing dental disease. The air and water combined with the powder required for your teeth helps to remove those hard to reach areas, giving you a clean refreshing feel. After your care is complete, we have hot towel service to freshen up.
Air polishing, a cornerstone of GBT, involves using a device that emits a controlled stream of air, water, and specially formulated powder to remove biofilm, stains, and plaque from tooth surfaces. The selection of air polishing powder plays a crucial role in achieving optimal results, as different powders offer varying advantages in terms of efficacy, safety, and client comfort. Let's explore three popular options:
Baking soda-based powders have long been used in dental prophylaxis due to their gentle yet effective cleaning properties. In GBT, Classic baking soda powders are prized for their ability to remove surface stains, plaque, and biofilm without causing damage to tooth enamel or soft tissues. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps neutralize acidic conditions in the oral cavity, creating an environment less conducive to bacterial growth. Additionally, baking soda is non-toxic, making it safe for clients of all ages and those with sensitivities to certain ingredients.
Erythritol-based powders, such as those found in PLUS formulations, offer a unique advantage in GBT by leveraging the natural antimicrobial properties of erythritol. This sugar alcohol not only aids in biofilm disruption but also helps inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental decay and periodontal disease. PLUS powders are particularly effective in hard-to-reach areas and interdental spaces, where biofilm accumulation is common. Moreover, erythritol is non-cariogenic, meaning it does not contribute to tooth decay, making it an excellent choice for clients concerned about their dental health.
In conclusion, Guided Biofilm Therapy choice in powders represents a advancement in dental hygiene, offering a comprehensive approach to biofilm removal and oral health maintenance. The careful selection of air polishing powders further enhances the efficacy and safety of GBT, with options such as Classic baking soda, Erythritol in PLUS powder, and Glycine for PERIO powder catering to diverse client needs. By incorporating these advanced techniques and formulations into routine dental care, practitioners can provide clients with superior outcomes, promoting long-term oral health and overall well-being.