Guided Biofilm Therapy
Serving patients throughout Barnes, Richmond, Hammersmith, Fulham, Putney and London SW13
What is Guided Biofilm Therapy?
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is a systematic, evidence-based approach to professional dental cleaning developed by EMS, the Swiss pioneers of ultrasonic dental hygiene technology. It is now considered one of the most effective and comfortable methods of professional teeth cleaning available.
At Castelnau Dentists in Barnes, our hygienists are fully trained in GBT. Using the EMS Airflow system, we are able to remove dental biofilm (the invisible bacteria responsible for decay and gum disease), plaque, and surface staining in a gentle, minimally invasive way. This is particularly beneficial for patients who find traditional hygiene appointments uncomfortable.
How Does GBT Work?
The GBT protocol follows a precise, evidence-based process. First, we use a disclosing agent to make biofilm visible so we can identify the areas that need the most attention. We then use the Airflow handpiece, which delivers a controlled stream of warm water, air, and fine Airflow powder to remove biofilm, staining, and early calculus in one comfortable step. Any remaining hard calculus is removed with the Piezon instrument, which is gentle yet highly effective. Finally, we perform a final check to confirm all biofilm has been removed.
GBT is safe for use on natural teeth, dental implants, veneers, crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances. It is also suitable for patients with sensitive teeth, dental anxiety, or periodontal (gum) disease.
Please see our fees page for full pricing. Finance options are available if required.
Results may vary. A consultation with your hygienist is recommended to discuss whether GBT is the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.
The Benefits of GBT for Your Oral Health
Traditional hygiene methods, while effective, can sometimes cause sensitivity and discomfort. Guided Biofilm Therapy takes a fundamentally different approach. By first identifying and mapping the biofilm using a disclosing agent, we can focus our attention precisely where it is needed most, removing all traces of bacteria in the gentlest possible way.
Patients who have experienced GBT consistently report that it is a far more comfortable experience than traditional cleaning. The warm water spray feels soothing, and the absence of scraping means less sensitivity during and after treatment.
Who Benefits Most from GBT?
- Patients with dental implants, which require specialist cleaning to maintain
- Patients wearing orthodontic braces or aligners
- Anyone with sensitive teeth or gum sensitivity
- Patients who have previously found hygiene appointments uncomfortable
- Anyone with a higher risk of gum disease or decay
- Patients with crowns, veneers, or bridges
Regular GBT sessions are an outstanding investment in your long-term dental health. Combined with a personalised home care routine recommended by your hygienist, GBT can significantly reduce your risk of gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss.
GBT and Your Dental Implants
If you have dental implants, Guided Biofilm Therapy is particularly important for maintaining the health of the tissue around your implants. Peri-implantitis (gum disease around implants) is a common complication that can lead to implant failure if left untreated. Traditional metal instruments can scratch implant surfaces, potentially causing damage.
The Airflow technology used in GBT is safe for use on implant surfaces and highly effective at removing the bacterial biofilm that causes peri-implantitis. We recommend GBT for all implant patients as part of their ongoing maintenance care, typically every three to four months depending on your individual risk profile.
GBT for Orthodontic Patients
If you are currently wearing fixed braces, retainers, or clear aligners such as Invisalign, maintaining clean teeth can be challenging. Brackets, wires, and aligner edges all create areas where biofilm can accumulate. The Airflow handpiece can reach precisely around orthodontic appliances to remove biofilm thoroughly without causing any damage.
We recommend that orthodontic patients visit their hygienist every three to four months during active treatment, and maintain a rigorous home care routine between appointments. Your hygienist will advise you on the best products and techniques for your specific appliance type.
What is Guided Biofilm Therapy?
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is an advanced, evidence-based approach to professional dental cleaning developed by EMS. It uses the Airflow technology to remove dental biofilm, plaque, and staining using a warm water and fine powder spray, followed by targeted use of ultrasonic instruments where needed. The process is guided by a disclosing agent that makes bacteria visible, allowing your hygienist to clean precisely where it is needed most.
Is GBT suitable for patients with sensitive teeth?
Yes, GBT is particularly well suited to patients with sensitive teeth. The warm water spray is gentle and soothing, and the Airflow powder is designed to be non-abrasive. Many patients who have found traditional hygiene appointments uncomfortable report that GBT is a much more positive experience. Please tell your hygienist about any sensitivity before your appointment so they can adapt the treatment accordingly.
How is GBT different from a traditional scale and polish?
Traditional scaling uses metal instruments to scrape away tartar from tooth surfaces, which can sometimes cause sensitivity. GBT uses the Airflow technology to first remove biofilm and soft deposits, then the Piezon instrument only where hard calculus remains. This minimally invasive approach means less abrasion to tooth and gum surfaces, less sensitivity during and after treatment, and more thorough removal of the bacteria responsible for gum disease and decay.
Can GBT be used on dental implants?
Yes, GBT is the preferred cleaning method for patients with dental implants. The Airflow technology is safe for titanium implant surfaces and can effectively remove the biofilm that causes peri-implantitis without scratching or damaging the implant. We recommend all implant patients attend regular GBT appointments as part of their implant maintenance programme.
Do I need to see a dentist before having GBT?
For new patients, we recommend an initial consultation with one of our dentists before any treatment, including hygiene appointments. This allows us to assess your oral health comprehensively and ensure we recommend the most appropriate care for you. Existing patients with a current dental record may be able to book directly with a hygienist. Please speak to our team if you are unsure.
Is GBT available for children?
Yes, GBT is suitable for children and young patients. Removing biofilm at an early age helps establish healthy teeth and gums for life. Our hygienists are experienced in working with younger patients and can make the appointment as comfortable and positive as possible. We can also advise on home care routines appropriate for the patient's age and dental development.
Book Your GBT Appointment at Castelnau Dentists
Experience the difference that Guided Biofilm Therapy can make. Our friendly hygiene team in Barnes, London SW13 are here to help you maintain a healthy smile with the very latest in dental cleaning technology.
We welcome patients from Barnes, Putney, Richmond, Mortlake, Sheen, and the surrounding areas. New patients are always welcome.
Professional dental hygiene treatments in Barnes, London. Our skilled hygienists provide thorough scale and polish, personalised oral health advice, and advanced treatments including Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) to help you maintain a healthy smile.
At Castelnau Dentists, we provide a choice of accessible NHS dentistry and high quality private dental treatments for all the family. Our friendly team is dedicated to helping you enjoy a happy, healthy smile for life through regular check-ups, hygiene appointments, and expert care.