Professional GBT hygiene (Air-Flow): why, how often, and what makes it different

Professional hygiene is not cosmetic; it is the foundation of healthy teeth and gums. It removes the biofilm and tartar a brush cannot reach, and prevents decay and periodontitis. At the Houston clinic the standard is the GBT (Guided Biofilm Therapy) protocol by EMS.

What GBT is and how it differs

GBT is a step-by-step protocol carried out on an EMS AIRFLOW® Prophylaxis Master. First a disclosing dye stains the plaque so that the whole biofilm is visible; then it is gently removed with a warm stream of powder and water; and only afterwards, if needed, comes the ultrasound. It is kinder to enamel and gums, and noticeably more comfortable than a classic cleaning.

What we work on: the EMS AIRFLOW Prophylaxis Master

GBT at the Houston clinic is performed on a genuine Swiss unit EMS AIRFLOW® Prophylaxis Master. It combines AIRFLOW® (a warm mixture of powder, water and air), PERIOFLOW® (for deep periodontal pockets) and PIEZON® (gentle ultrasound) — this is the machine on which the gold standard of professional hygiene is delivered.

A separate tip for every patient

Our Air-Flow tips are single-use — one per patient. This is a matter of hygienic safety, and it matters especially during a professional cleaning.

How often

• Usually every six months.
• If you are prone to periodontitis or have implants, every three to four months (supportive periodontal therapy).

Regularity matters more than intensity: the biofilm comes back, so the doctor sets a maintenance schedule for each patient.

If you already have periodontitis

Bleeding gums, receding gums or loose teeth call for treatment, not just a cleaning. At Houston we use closed and open curettage together with PRF plasma therapy (platelet-rich fibrin) to speed the healing of the gums and the regeneration of bone. There is more on the periodontics page.

Frequently asked questions