When we made the decision to adopt Guided Biofilm Therapy as our standard cleaning protocol, it wasn't a marketing decision. It was a clinical one.
GBT is a systematic, evidence-based cleaning method developed by EMS (Electro Medical Systems) that addresses the root cause of most dental disease — biofilm — more effectively and more comfortably than conventional scaling has ever managed.
The Problem with Traditional Scaling
Traditional dental cleaning involves a hygienist manually scraping calculus and debris from tooth surfaces using sharp metal instruments. It's been the standard approach for decades. It works — but it has significant limitations.
- It's uncomfortable, particularly below the gumline
- It removes calculus reactively, after it has already formed
- It can miss biofilm in areas instruments can't reach
- It can damage the surface of restorations, implants, and sensitive enamel
- Results vary significantly between clinicians
Calculus (tartar) isn't the primary cause of gum disease — biofilm is. Traditional scaling removes the calculus but doesn't always address the biofilm that causes it to form in the first place.
What Is Guided Biofilm Therapy?
GBT is a minimally invasive, systematic protocol that uses a combination of disclosing agents, air-powder technology (Airflow), and targeted ultrasonic scaling to remove biofilm, stains, and calculus from all tooth surfaces — including areas traditional instruments can't reliably reach.
The 8-Step Protocol
What makes GBT different isn't a single technology — it's the systematic application of the right tool at the right stage:
- Assessment — full clinical assessment and biofilm risk evaluation
- Disclosure — a disclosing agent is applied, making biofilm visible as a coloured stain
- Motivation — patients see exactly where their homecare needs improvement
- Airflow — warm powder-and-water jet removes soft biofilm, stains, and early deposits from all surfaces including between teeth and below the gumline
- Perioflow — targeted sub-gingival Airflow tip cleans periodontal pockets up to 9mm
- Piezon — latest-generation ultrasonic scaler removes any remaining calculus — only where needed
- Quality check — clinical re-evaluation ensures every surface is clean
- Recall planning — personalised interval set based on individual biofilm risk
What Patients Notice
The most common thing patients tell us after their first GBT appointment: it was far more comfortable than they expected. Many describe it as a pleasant experience. The warm Airflow powder feels gentle, there's significantly less scraping, and their teeth feel cleaner than after any previous appointment.
Patients with sensitivity, implants, veneers, and orthodontic appliances particularly benefit from GBT — it's safe and effective for all restorations, while traditional scaling can damage them.
CDCP Coverage
GBT falls under professional cleaning and scaling — which is covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan for eligible patients. You get the most advanced cleaning method available at CDCP rates, with no additional charge.
